Protection of the Gulf snapping turtle

Australia’s largest freshwater turtle, the Gulf Snapping Turtle (Elseya lavarackorum), was considered extinct for many years before it was found to be still living in the river systems that flow into the Gulf of Carpentaria. The Gulf Snapping Turtle is found nowhere else in the world, however the species remains critically endangered. The turtle is under increasing threat from predation and habitat destruction by feral pigs, altered waterway flows, and climatic related events such as cyclones, extreme rainfall, and high temperatures. 

The project’s aim is to directly reduce threats to the Gulf Snapping Turtle through feral pig control. Reduction in pig numbers will allow nests to remain undisturbed and hatchlings to thrive, while improving water quality in turtle habitat. 

The project will work collaboratively with land managers, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, university researchers and pest animal contractors to undertake on-ground activities.