Summer could see more turtle activity on Phillip Island

While fairy penguins may be expected around the Bass Coast, they’re not the only animals on the move. See what you should watch out for.

Summer season means more animals are on the move, including turtles.

Phillip Island is home to the common long-necked turtle Chelodina longicollis.

Turtles on Phillip Island are usually found around large freshwater bodies like Swan Lake, Rhyll Wetland or in farm dams.

But locals Tara and Jordan were driving along Pyramid Rock Rd on Monday evening when they discovered a turtle on the side of the road.

“I saw a funny looking rock on the side of the road. As we got closer, I realised that it was a turtle, so I pulled over to check on it,” Tara said.

Locals Tara and Jordan were driving along Pyramid Rock Rd on Monday evening when they discovered a turtle on the side of the road. Picture: Supplied.

Unsure how to protect it, they brought it to the Penguin Parade. Picture: Supplied.

She tried to call an animal rescue as there was no water in sight but due to Phillip Island having no after hours animal rescue, she decided to drive it to the rangers at the Penguin Parade.

“I was just concerned because you don’t really see turtles a lot down here and there was no water near this little guy. I wanted to make sure he wasn’t injured or sick,” she said.

Deputy Research Director at Phillip Island Nature Parks, Dr Duncan Sutherland said turtles are “hardy creatures” and despite popular belief, they can travel a long way.

“They can travel long distances over land in search of new homes. They may be encountered in unusual places and are more active in summer,” he said.

“The best thing we can do is keep our wildlife wild. These animals are very different to domesticated animals and have developed specific diets, behaviour and habitats over thousands of years.”

If you encounter injured wildlife or need help relocating an animal, you can call Phillip Island Nature Parks on 5951 2800 or Wildlife Victoria 8400 7300.