The broad-shelled turtle is one of three species of freshwater turtle that lives in the region.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Community members are being urged to report turtle sightings and nesting activity as turtles begin moving across the region earlier than usual this season.
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The reports will help Greater Shepparton City Council’s RiverConnect team track turtle movements and protect nests from predators.
RiverConnect staff can install specially designed mesh covers over nests to protect them from threats such as foxes.
Acting RiverConnect education officer Ruth Boyd said turtle nesting season was starting earlier than usual.
“Turtle nesting typically occurs around November and December,” she said.
“However, this year we have already seen turtles on the move earlier than usual following warmer weather and recent rainfall.
“Turtles can travel long distances searching for suitable nesting sites and are often active early in the morning.”
Tatura Turtles volunteer Yvette Williams said every sighting helped build a better understanding of local turtle movements.
“We can work together to give our local turtles the best chance of survival,” she said.
“By reporting a turtle nest, community members can help give the next generation of turtles a better chance.
“It’s simple to arrange protection, and every nest counts.”
Foxes are a major threat to freshwater turtle nests, with protective covers placed over nests soon after nesting helping to improve hatchlings’ chances of survival.
Residents can use the TurtleSAT app to record turtle sightings and nesting activity.
Turtle hatchlings are vulnerable to predators. Picture: Nicholas Rowlands.
Photo by
Nicholas Rowlands
If you find a nesting turtle, you can stay nearby until the turtle finishes laying, which can take 15 minutes to over three hours.
Residents are encouraged to then mark the location without disturbing the turtle. Return later to confirm nesting is complete.
After nesting, the female turtle may be tired and vulnerable to predators. If she needs assistance, safely move her to the nearest suitable water body.
If you find turtle eggs leave them and report the location to Wildlife Victoria on 8400 7300.
If you find a turtle on a road or in danger you can safely carry the turtle (from the top holding the front and back of the shell) in the direction it was heading to prevent it trying to re-cross the road.
If there is a water body within a few metres of the turtle, move it to the water. If the water is far away, simply move it out of harm’s way.
If the turtle appears to be dead, ill, or injured, or if you have any concerns at all, call Wildlife Victoria for rescue or advice.
If you find a hatchling turtle pick the hatchling up and place it in plants on the edge of the nearest suitable water body.
It is illegal to remove native animals from the wild.
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