Community
8 October, 2021
Exotic turtle watch
COUNCIL, in conjunction with Biosecurity Queensland, are currently undertaking aquatic surveillance at Warrina Lakes for an invasive freshwater turtle species.
Last week, an invasive turtle detection platform was deployed into the centre of Warrina Lakes by Council Staff and Biosecurity Queensland.
Exotic turtles are imported into Australia to be sold as pets and unfortunately when these exotic species escape into Australian waterways, they often outcompete our local native species for food and habitat.
The turtle surveillance program will be in place for a period of approximately four weeks capturing images of the local turtle populations at Warrina Lakes. The information collected will allow Biosecurity Officers to determine what species are present and if any further management actions are required.
If you see any unusual turtles, such as the red-eared slider turtle, please take a photo and email it to info@daf.qld.gov.au or phone Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.
