Join turtle expert James Van Dyke for a talk and tour about turtles!

Freshwater turtles help keep our rivers and wetlands clean as major scavengers. However, they face numerous threats, including predation of their nests by foxes, car strikes, and habitat loss. As a result of these pressures, freshwater turtle populations have experienced alarming declines, with some locations reporting reductions of up to 90%.

Despite their ecological significance and concerning population trends, turtles remain understudied, creating a knowledge gap in their conservation. To address this issue, citizen scientists have become crucial contributors in collecting valuable data on turtle distributions and the various threats they face.

Enhancing these efforts, the 1 Million Turtles community conservation program provides support to citizen scientists, empowering them not only to collect data but also to lead their own conservation initiatives. This collaborative approach between researchers, the public, and dedicated programs is essential for developing effective conservation strategies and ensuring the long-term survival of freshwater turtle species.

Come and learn about the turtles that live in the local area. This will be followed by heading out into the Nangak Tamboree to view turtle habitat (and hopefully some turtles) in person.

FAQs

How much walking is there?

This experience includes walking along footpaths inside and outside the Sanctuary (1-2km). Please let us know if walking long distances is difficult for you.

What do I need to bring?

Please dress appropriately for the weather (eg. appropriate footwear - no thongs or heels).

What happens if it rains?

Aquatic wildlife don't mind a little bit of rain, so the event will go ahead even if light showers are expected. We may cancel in the event of extreme weather conditions (eg. high winds or heavy rainfall); but we will contact you directly if this occurs.

Is this event suitable for children?

Yes! Children are welcome to come but they need to be able to sit quietly and listen. Generally recommended for children aged 8+.

How can I get in touch with any questions?

If you have any questions, please contact us on (03) 9479 1206 or wildlife@latrobe.edu.au