Did you know the Hunter River Turtle is only found in our very own Hunter River system? You might have guessed from its name. 77 eggs were laid this summer in the Aussie Ark breeding program, which aims to prevent extinction of this unique animal. This rare and little-understood turtle population is a sub-species of one of the five, native, short-necked turtle species found in NSW. We also have two native, long-necked species (pictured).
Droughts, floods, rubbish in the rivers, fox predation and loss and fragmentation of their aquatic and riverbank habitats are taking their toll in the wild. As a Landcarer who is out and about in the bush, you can help address this by supporting the TurtleSAP citizen science program.
Your local freshwater turtles need your help. Find out what sightings have been recorded in your local area. Download the TurtleSAT app and add your own sightings. Recording the locations of eggs, nests and dead turtles is also important data that scientists are using to help these vulnerable species.
Several Landcare groups in the Hunter Region are already tracking and supporting turtles, augmenting habitat and safeguarding nests from feral predators such as foxes. You can join in the project too. Let us know any turtle stories we can share in the Scoop and on our socials to help spread the word.
Videos about the project:
Aussie Ark breeding program video 2025: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/17vLsZ6x9g/
Aussie Ark breeding program video 2026: TURTLE-Y AMAZING!
Sky News item for 2026 breeding success: Endangered freshwater turtle breeding success at Aussie Ark Conservation