Georges' Snapping Turtle
Wollumbinia georgesi
Australia's Threatened Species Category
Critically Endangered
Listed since: 7/12/2016
IUCN's Threatened Species Category
Data Deficient
Listed since: 1/08/1996
Population trend: Unknown
Other names: Bellinger River Snapping Turtle, Georges Helmeted Turtle
Priority species? Yes
The Australian government's Threatened Species Action Plan 2022-2032 selected over 100 priority species derived from consultation with threatened species experts and the wider community. While all species are important, focusing on a limited number of species can help target effort and resources so that outcomes can be achieved, measured and shared.
Description
The Bellinger River snapping turtle is a medium sized freshwater turtle with a shell length up to 185mm in males and 250mm in females. It is most easily distinguished from other species by a silver iris and a horny head shield. In adult turtles, males can be distinguished by the much longer tail.
Threats
The greatest immediate threat to the Bellinger River snapping turtle is the disease outbreak associated with the Bellinger River snapping turtle mortality event that was first observed in February 2015 in the Bellinger River. Prior to the disease outbreak and the associated mortality event, actual or potential threats to Bellinger River snapping turtles were limited distribution and specific habitat requirements, predation and alteration to water quality.
Quollity Conservation Hub's Overall Priority Score
Average life span:
Unknown
Number of young produced each year:
Unknown
Number of breeding events each year:
Unknown
Minimum sexual maturity age:
Unknown
Who is helping
Useful links for more detailed information on this species
DCCEEW - Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
SPRAT - DCCEEW Species Profile and Threats Database