As temperatures rise, turtles are leaving their cosy homes and heading to lakes and wetlands in search of the perfect spot to lay their eggs.
The council's RiverConnect program is all hands on deck during this turtle migration. Staff are working tirelessly to shield precious turtle nests from crafty predators in the region.
RiverConnect Project Officer, Alison White, let us in on the secret to keeping these mamas and their eggs safe – turtle-sized mesh covers.
“In Greater Shepparton, we're home to three freshwater turtle species: the Eastern Long-Necked, Broad-Shelled, and Murray River turtles,” she said.
“Their nesting season usually falls around November and December, typically after a good downpour.
“These diligent mothers travel long distances to find a perfect nesting place and are usually most active in the early mornings.”
What’s the challenge?
Foxes.
These sly creatures are notorious egg-snatchers, and they've got a knack for discovering turtle nests even when they're hidden from human eyes.
That’s where RiverConnect and the Tatura Turtles volunteers come into play.
Tatura Turtles volunteer Yvette Williams said spotting nesting turtles is like finding a needle in a haystack.
While it's a rare sight for humans, it's crucial to keep our reptilian friends safe.
“When you do stumble upon a nesting event, don't keep it a secret,” she said.
“We document these sightings on the TurtleSAT app, which helps researchers nationwide monitor turtle populations.
“If you see a nesting turtle in the Tatura area, please contact us through the Tatura Turtles Facebook page.”
If you encounter a nesting mama, if possible, guard her discreetly until she's done laying her eggs.
This may take anywhere from 15 minutes to over three hours.
After she’s finished, mark the spot without disturbing her.
Later, check to ensure she's gone and move her to the closest water source if needed.
Remember, she'll be tired and more susceptible to predators post-nesting.
But what if you discover turtle eggs?
Don't disturb them.
Report their location to Wildlife Victoria at (03) 8400 7300.
For turtles in danger on roads, give them a helping hand.
Safely transport the turtle (holding it from the top with both hands) in the direction it was headed.
This prevents it from attempting another risky road crossing once you're gone.
If there's water nearby, take it there. For those far from water, move them to safety.
If a turtle appears ill, injured, or you're unsure, reach out to Wildlife Victoria for guidance or rescue.
As for hatchling turtles, they're best placed in nearby water bodies, not your home.
Removing native animals from the wild is a no-go.
RiverConnect and the Tatura Turtles are armed with nest protection kits, thanks to the Tatura community, the Fairley Leadership Program, and support from the Hugh Williamson Foundation.
To dive deeper into this turtle tale, call RiverConnect at (03) 5832 9700 or email riverconnect@shepparton.vic.gov.au
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