Rescued Turtles Returned to the Wild by Australia Zoo

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: April 8, 2021 7:15 pm

White Throated Snapping Turtle Hatchling Australia Zoo

The group of rescued white-throated snapping turtles prior to their release by Australia Zoo

Photo Credit: Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors

When a female white-throated snapping turtle came to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital last December keepers thought they only had one patient. Fighting for life vets gave life-saving treatment to help with severe injuries to her face and soft tissue damage to the head including the loss of both eyes.

Upon further examination though vets discovered Yurtle had a secret. She was carrying 14 eggs a massive boost for this endangered species.

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“As white-throated snapping turtles, (Elseya albagula), are a critically endangered species of freshwater turtle, we did everything we could to ensure the survival of Yurtle and her 14 eggs,” said Dr. Rosie Booth, Chief of Staff at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital.

“Yurtle was induced to lay her eggs in water and they were artificially incubated while she recovered from her traumatic injuries,” Dr. Booth said.

A rescued white-throated snapping turtle prior to its release by Australia Zoo

Photo Credit: Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors

Seven of these eggs successfully hatched and last week a team from Australia Zoo and Wildlife Warriors were able to return the hatchlings to the creek from which Yurtle was rescued.

Thankfully their mother Yurtle has also successfully recovered from her injuries. Unfortunately due to some of the trauma sustained though she is unsuitable for release but will live out her days at another wildlife park as a part of an education and breeding program.

“We are delighted to have contributed to the conservation of this critically endangered species, with seven hatchlings back in the wild and one in a breeding program,” said Dr. Booth.