Turtle nesting sparks road caution plea

Motorists are being encouraged to drive with caution and keep an eye out for turtles crossing over the next few weeks.

Turtle enthusiast Atlanta Veld said that in the Albany region nesting usually occurs in the first and second week of October.

“Unseasonal weather delayed the nesting last year until early November and it is likely that will happen again this year,” she said.

“The nesting is triggered by a rain-bearing low pressure front and often warmer weather and Albany’s current weather is too cool even when the sun is out.”

Ms Veld, who has been volunteering with the turtles for more than 10 years, said she encourages motorists to drive with caution while the turtles are out and about.

“They can be the size of a 20¢ coin crossing the road and so hard to spot but if you are aware of the signs on the side of the road, just please keep an eye out for them,” she said.

Signs have been put up by the City of Albany along Golf Links Road to reduce traffic speed because of a large population of turtles living in Lake Seppings.

If you find an injured or newly emerged hatchling contact Born Free on 0427 772 312