A crocodile has been spotted swimming in a New South Wales waterway, far from its natural home.

The infant was first seen in a pond behind a Bunnings Warehouse in Wallsend, Newcastle, about 4.30pm on Saturday.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Crocodile found swimming behind Newcastle Bunnings

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Police attended the scene and formed a perimeter around the reptile to keep it from escaping toward numerous onlookers.

“It is unknown at this time how long the crocodile had been in the water,” police said.

“A dangerous animal handling specialist has been called in to safely retrieve the reptile.”

Police advised late Sunday night that the animal had been captured by reptile experts.

It’s understood the crocodile may have been an illegal pet as it was found over 1000km away from its regular habitat in Queensland.

A crocodile has been spotted in a Newcastle park following recent rainfall. Credit: Facebook

The Queensland government lists “Croc Country”, where the reptiles are mostly found, as stretching across coastal regions of the states north and ending in Gladstone.

“Crocodiles can sometimes also be found outside of this area but sightings are rare,” the government says.

However, recent rain in Newcastle could have played a part in the reptile being found in the peculiar spot.

“Crocodiles are highly mobile at any time, especially after heavy rain and floods,” the Queensland government says.

“They can travel hundreds of kilometres in water and can be found in all waterways and oceans within crocodile habitat.”