Unique Queensland turtle hatchlings to be released into rivers near Bundaberg

Hundreds of freshwater turtle hatchlings have been released into the Fitzroy and Burnett Rivers up to eight months after wildlife officers rescued their eggs from predators. 

Minister for Environment and Heritage Protection, Andrew Powell said 520 turtles had hatched from eggs collected from as long ago as last May, June and October.

“In May and June 2012, officers rescued 35 clutches of snapping turtle eggs from the lower Burnett and took them to our predator-proof incubation site in Bundaberg,” Mr Powell said.

“Researchers rescued another seven Fitzroy River turtle egg clutches October, bringing the total to 579 turtle eggs.

“Both these species are unique to Queensland and if their eggs aren’t protected, the turtles come under threat from predators such as foxes, dogs, pigs, goannas and water rats.

“After a long period of incubation, EHP officers released a total of 391 white-throated snapping turtles and 129 Fitzroy River turtles between December and January, with the last hatchlings being freed today.
 
Aquatic Threatened Species Chief Scientist, Dr Col Limpus, said the snapping turtle eggs take an unusually long time to incubate.

“Often eggs that are laid in early winter do not hatch until the following summer,” Dr Limpus said.

“This means the eggs are vulnerable to predators in the wild for a longer period of time.

“It’s a similar story for the Fitzroy River turtle, with many nests destroyed by predators.”

Dr Limpus also praised the Shalom College/ Chaverim Outdoor and Environment Centre staff and students, who managed dogs and foxes on their land where the white-throated snapping turtles nest.

“They also kept their cattle off the nesting area and controlled weeds so female turtles could access the nesting areas,” he said. 

Minister Powell encouraged people to get involved in protecting local turtles, particularly during nesting season.

“Both of these species are found only in Queensland so it’s imperative that we work together to protect them,” he said.

[ENDS] 17 January 2013

Media Contact: Brooke Hargraves 0458 689 043

 **Photos of are available of newly hatched white throated snapping turtles from EHP’s artificial incubation site at the Bundaberg office.

Photo/ filming opportunity: Release of white-throated snapping turtles upstream from Bundaberg this afternoon.