SOS to save our wildlife from development

TRAFFIC signs warning about turtles crossing roads may be installed in a bid to prevent the growing problem of turtle roadkill around new housing developments in the northwest.

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TRAFFIC signs warning about turtles crossing roads may be installed in a bid to prevent the growing problem of turtle roadkill around new housing developments in the northwest.

Blacktown Council environmental officers, sent to investigate a spate of turtle deaths around Riverstone and Schofields, ended up rescuing eastern long-necked turtles attempting to cross busy roads.

The officers also uncovered more dead turtles during their visit to Boundary Rd, Schofields, where new housing developments are driving the wildlife out.

Long necked turtle which was rescued by local resident Jo Williams, on Boundary Rod, Schofields.

The Rouse Hill Times first reported the rise in turtle deaths last month.

Council investigations determined no one had committed any offence in relation to nearby dams, and it has contacted the wildlife rescue organisation WIRES.

The council has also mooted the prospect of erecting signage to warn motorists.

“Unfortunately, in this instance, there is little (the) council can do, however, (the) council is investigating the possibility of installing signs warning motorists of turtles crossing the road,” a council spokeswoman said.

One of the several dead turtles found in Oakville.

More residents have since raised concerns about the issue.

Riverstone resident Joanne Williams said her children had been distressed by the sight of dead turtles on the side of the road.

Her family had rescued three turtles last week, and sighted two killed by cars on Schofields Rd the week before.

“It’s just over the top — something needs to be done,” Ms Williams said.

“I’ve lived here three years, and now you just see the poor things everywhere. My boy starts screaming from the back of the car when we see one.”