Australia is home to several species of sea turtles—including the Green, Loggerhead, and Hawksbill—as well as freshwater turtles found in rivers, lakes, and wetlands. These ancient reptiles play a vital role in both marine and freshwater ecosystems.
🧐 When People Encounter Turtles
Common scenarios include:
- Sea turtles stranded on beaches or entangled in debris
- Freshwater turtles crossing roads or found in urban environments
- Injured turtles from boat strikes, fishing lines, or plastic ingestion
Image: WIRES Wildlife Rescue
🛑 What To Do
- Do not move or handle the turtle unless it is in immediate danger (e.g., on a road or at risk of predation)
- For sea turtles, contact the Australian Marine Wildlife Research & Rescue Organisation at 08 8262 5452
- For freshwater turtles, call Wildlife Rescue Australia at 1300 596 457
- If it is safe, observe from a distance and monitor the turtle until help arrives
⚠️ Important to Know
Turtles are highly sensitive to stress, and even well-meaning intervention can cause harm. Many species are protected under Australian law, and may be endangered or vulnerable.
🌱 Why This Matters
Turtles are keystone species, meaning their survival is crucial to the health of their entire ecosystem. Protecting them supports biodiversity and helps maintain delicate aquatic food webs. Many have existed for over 100 million years—your actions help keep that legacy alive.
🔍 References:
- Australian Marine Wildlife Research & Rescue Organisation. (n.d.). Found an Injured Turtle? Retrieved from: https://www.amwrro.org.au/found-an-injured-marine-animal/turtle
- WIRES. (n.d.). Lizards and Turtles. Retrieved from: https://www.wires.org.au/wildlife-information/lizards-and-turtles
