Help save our snake-necked turtles
Nesting season for the southwestern snake-necked turtle (Chelodina oblonga) is underway and is expected to reach its peak in October-November.
These remarkable turtles, also known as booyi, yaakan, long-necked or oblong turtles, are observed nesting across several wetlands in the City, including Lake Gwelup and Carine Regional Open Space.
As a vital underwater predator, the snake-necked turtle plays a key role in maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems.
However, the species is currently listed as near-threatened, with juvenile survival rates impacted by predation, road incidents and nest destruction.
The City has long partnered with the community to protect turtle nests during nesting season.
From 2022 to 2024, the Saving Our Snake-Necked Turtle Program, led by Murdoch University and the Perth South West Metropolitan Alliance, saw over 1000 volunteer hours contributed at Lake Gwelup alone.
The program successfully protected around 100 nests, and last year, hatchlings were reported for the first time – a promising sign for the species’ recovery.
Looking ahead, the City will continue to support turtle conservation efforts as the program transitions into a community-led initiative.
Volunteers will help monitor nesting activity and install protective mesh around nests to prevent predation and damage to nesting sites.
How you can help
- Keep dogs under control near wetlands and do not allow them in the water
- Drive slowly and stay alert around roads adjacent to nesting areas.
To learn more, visit the City’s Native animals webpage.
Image courtesy: Anthony Santoro.
