Turtles test new fence

Electric fences have been built on the Burnett River to protect the eggs of a threatened freshwater turtle.

Over the past few months, two important nesting areas for the White-throated Snapping Turtle (Elseya albagula) have been fenced by the Burnett Catchment Care Association. The turtles lay their eggs in the sandy river banks, and approximately 60 metre of electric fence has been erected at each site to keep out cattle from trampling on nests.

The nesting sites were identified during previous seasons by research staff.

However, trampling is only one threat to the survival of turtle eggs, with wild dogs, foxes and goannas preying on the eggs. Some people have actually suggested that this may cause the turtle to become extinct in 10 to 20 years time. So with the assistance from the Lands Protection Officers at Bundaberg Regional Council, and support from nearby landholders, 3 rounds of 1080 baits have also been placed at both sites.

Maintenance and revegetation at the sites has been conducted by young people from the Green Army through IMPACT ‘Make Your Mark’ in Bundaberg, but volunteers are needed to monitor the nesting sites on a regular basis.

To volunteer to help, and for more information about the White-throated Snapping Turtle, visit www.betterburnett.com or telephone Louise Newman from the Burnett Catchment Care Association on 07 4165 3551.

This electric fence will protect the turtle nesting area

Elseya albagula , the White-throated Snapping Turtle

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