The Strathalbyn Natural Resource Centre will launch Turtle Month this Thursday 28 October with a talk by renowned conservationist and turtle expert, Dr Mike Thompson.

Dr Thompson will talk about local turtles and a new citizen science project called One Million Turtles.

The number of freshwater turtles in Australia has declined by more than 90 per cent in the last 40 years due to increased urbanisation and foxes and disease related to poor habitat quality.

The aim of One Million Turtles is to release more than one million extra turtles throughout Australia each year.

The initiative will support education projects, the creation of protected islands and nesting grounds around local wetlands, parks and golf courses.

There are three species of turtles found in the River Murray in South Australia: thukubi, the Murray short-necked turtle, malinthaipari, the Eastern long-necked turtle and weri, the broad-shelled turtle.

All three make their nests on land and nesting season is usually in November and December. During this time their eggs are vulnerable to being eaten by foxes and female turtles are at risk of being run over by cars as they search for nesting sites.

The turtle workshop will be held on at 7pm this Thursday at the Strathalbyn Natural Resource Centre at the corner of Donald and Catherine Streets. 

Attendees can RSVP by contacting Community Engagement Officer, Jacqui Wilson, on 0400 036 843.