Australia’s freshwater turtles play a vital role in supporting the health of wetlands and rivers. However, alarming statistics indicate that one in three turtle species is currently facing the threat of extinction. Despite their importance, there is still much that remains unknown about these fascinating creatures. In an effort to shed light on their behavior and inform conservation efforts, a special issue of the journal Austral Ecology features the latest research on Australian freshwater turtles, with contributions from 55 authors including biologists.
One study highlighted the effectiveness of using underwater video cameras compared to traditional trapping surveys. The researchers discovered that the use of video cameras yielded similar results to trapping surveys, detecting 83 turtles from 52 hours of footage and successfully identifying all species in the study area. This non-invasive technique proved to be a valuable and time-efficient method for collecting data on the relative abundance and species richness of freshwater turtles.
Another groundbreaking discovery involved the observation of courtship behavior in saw-shelled turtles. The study captured the first-ever instance of a wild saw-shelled turtle attempting to court a mate. The male turtle displayed affection by waving his feet and pressing his nose against the female’s face. In another surprising revelation, researchers documented same-sex mounting behavior in this species for the first time.
Research on turtle behavior also unveiled the phenomenon of nocturnal basking. While many reptiles regulate their body temperature by sunning themselves during the day, some freshwater turtles, as well as crocodiles, were found to emerge from the water and bask on logs at night. Scientists in Queensland discovered that Krefft’s river turtles basked more when the water temperature was hot, indicating that they engage in this behavior to cool down in warm weather.
In the desert regions, researchers were able to recapture Cooper Creek turtles after a span of two decades. This unique opportunity arose when the research site became surrounded by floodwater, allowing the turtles to venture onto the floodplain in search of food. The study also uncovered a high number of baby turtles, which contrasts with many other regions in Australia that struggle with foxes preying on turtle nests.
The threat of foxes on freshwater turtle populations is a significant concern across Australia, as they negatively impact breeding success. To address this issue, researchers are exploring different methods of nest protection. Temporary electric fences have been successful in safeguarding turtle nests from foxes over several breeding seasons in the New England Tablelands. Additionally, plastic mesh over individual nests has proven effective in certain cases along the Murray River.
Collaboration with local communities has proven invaluable in the conservation of endangered turtle species such as the Mary River turtle. Over the course of 22 years, more than 100 community members in the Mary River Catchment have been actively involved in initiatives to protect these turtles. This partnership has not only contributed to the preservation of the species but has also led to improved river management and enhanced river habitats for turtles.
To further support freshwater turtle conservation, November has been designated as Turtle Month for the 1 Million Turtles campaign. This national citizen science program encourages scientists and the community to come together and actively participate in initiatives aimed at protecting freshwater turtles. The initiative offers the TurtleSAT app, which allows individuals to report turtle sightings, contribute to data-driven turtle management, and engage in various conservation activities. The program’s website provides educational resources to empower citizen scientists to protect turtle nests, establish predator-free sanctuaries, and deepen their understanding of turtles and wetlands.
Considering that 18,000 records have been logged, 1,200 turtles have been saved from road hazards, and 500 nests have been protected through the 1 Million Turtles campaign, the program is critical in the face of increasing threats to freshwater turtle species. Despite progress, there is still much to uncover about these creatures, with 12 out of Australia’s 25 freshwater turtle species having insufficient data to assess their national conservation status. Threats such as habitat loss, predation by foxes and feral pigs, disease, fire, and the introduction of non-native turtle species emphasize the need for integrated conservation efforts that involve close collaboration with First Nations people who hold valuable knowledge of these ecosystems.
Long-term studies and advancements in technology are essential for the future conservation and management of these long-lived species. Working hand in hand with communities is crucial for learning more about turtles and implementing effective protection measures. If one million people each take action to save one turtle, the collective impact will be significant in safeguarding the future of freshwater turtles.
