Turtles on the move

The City’s Natural Areas team have been busy installing turtle signs around Lake Joondalup, as a part of the Saving our Snake-necked Turtle Program. The signs provide guidance on how you can help if you see turtles and how you can assist to monitor their populations.

Southwestern snake-necked turtles (known to Noongar people as ‘Booyi’) are likely to be out and about in spring, looking for a spot to dig a nest and lay their eggs. They usually choose nesting sites within 100m of their wetland and prefer to nest during rainy weather, which means they can be difficult to see on roads and bike paths.

You can take the following actions to help the turtles:

• If turtles need help, assist them in the direction they are heading.
• If you find an injured turtle, call the WA Wildlife Hospital on 9417 7105 and they can provide advice.
• Drive and ride slowly around wetlands, especially during rainy weather in Spring when the turtles may be crossing roads or paths to look for nesting sites.
• Keep your dog on a leash and away from turtles and nests.
• Protect turtles from predators, such as ravens, dogs and cats.
• Download and use the TurtleSAT app, or use the website, to record turtle observations. This data will help the City understand our local turtle populations and help us to monitor and protect the turtles in the future.

This project is run in partnership with the City of Wanneroo and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Murdoch University and the South West Group.

Further information about the project can be found on the City’s website.