Wildlife rangers in the Northern Territory have captured a 1.7-metre crocodile in the living area of a Darwin home.

A Bees Creek family woke early yesterday morning to their dog barking and went to investigate.

They discovered a saltwater crocodile had wandered into a living area which is partly open to surrounding bush.

Jo Dodd says she got a fright when she discovered the crocodile in her house.

"It was the most freakiest thing - you don't usually see a 1.5-metre crocodile in your lounge room," she said.

"I don't know if he was stalking the dog or he was just trying to get to saltwater, most likely, but it was really a very surreal moment."

Wildlife rangers say the crocodile may have been pushed out of his normal surroundings by a larger animal.

The Crocodile Management Unit's Dani Best says it is not uncommon for crocodiles to enter suburban areas at this time of year.

She says male crocodiles are jostling for territory at this time of year, and some find themselves pushed out.

"Being the peak season, you see a substantial increase in the activity and movement of crocodiles, particularly around the rural area," she said.

"At this time of year male crocodiles are very aggressive with one another and small males can easily get pushed out.

"This incident serves as a reminder for people to remain croc wise and take caution in around waterways of the Top End."