The Jardine River Turtle Project
Saving the painted turtle from extiction
Jardine River turtles are listed as critically endangered in Australia and have thus far only been found in 7 small and discrete waterbodies, all of which are located along the Jardine River floodplain on Apudthama.
A sacred symbol for the Angkamuthi people
This species is a totem and is as such culturally significant for the Angkamuthi people who have inhabited this part of Apudthama for 60,000 years. Appropriate Jardine River turtle habitat is at risk due to incursion of feral predators (e.g., pigs) in and around these waterbodies. People For Wildlife aims to clarify the distribution, habitat use, and population size and structure of Jardine River turtles, using capturemark- recapture regimes, telemetry, and genetic analysis.
Critical scientific research.
Additionally, we aim to understand which biotic and abiotic factors these turtles select for, and against, when choosing habitats such that subsequent conservation and research efforts can be targeted towards suitable waterbodies.
Finally, we will conduct feral pig management and exclusion at waterbodies that are used by Jardine River turtles. These research and targeted conservation programmes represent the largest coordinated effort to date aimed at protecting this species from extinction in Australia.
