7am Part 2: Crocodiles and criminals
Jan 8, 2026
Katherine Wilson, an award-winning journalist known for her investigative work, delves into the murky waters of the crocodile skin industry. She reveals shocking details about a prominent scientist's horrific animal abuse and the industry's tarnished credibility. The episode covers the political push for crocodile farming in Queensland and celebrity backlash led by Bindi Irwin. As Wilson visits the incarcerated scientist, she uncovers troubling admissions and advocates for a re-evaluation of laws based on flawed research, leaving listeners questioning the industry's future.
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Research Framed Industry Growth
- Charles Darwin University research claimed extracting wild crocodile eggs had minimal impact and even conservation benefits.
- Those findings helped justify laws and public messaging supporting the $100 million crocodile industry.
Celebrity Scientist Persona
- Adam Britton was a celebrated crocodile scientist featured in National Geographic and mentored by Graham Webb.
- He ran a media business and collected DNA while building public credibility in the field.
Hidden Crimes Exposed
- Police found Britton scammed dog owners online, abused dogs in a shipping container and fed body parts to crocodiles.
- He was arrested in 2022 and sentenced in 2024 to 10 years for multiple crimes including bestiality.