New members of the Zoo given new lease on life

Published on 07 October 2020

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After just a week since arriving at their new home, Rockhampton Zoo’s newest family members are coming out of their shells and doing just fine.

The Zoo is now home to two Krefft’s River Turtles, who arrived last Tuesday.

Parks Portfolio Spokesperson, Councillor Cherie Rutherford, said the turtles have settled into their enclosures well and are now thriving in their new environment. 

“These turtles came to us through QLD National Parks, whose rangers had confiscated them,” Cr Rutherford said.

“They were illegally kept as pets and for that reason, cannot be released into the wild. They could potentially be exposed to diseases their bodies have not become immune to as they otherwise would have in the wild, or they could potentially introduce disease into a wild environment endangering our native wildlife. 

“It is also likely they might be vulnerable; having not lived anywhere other than a tank inside a house.

“While that aspect is sad, we are absolutely delighted to have these gorgeous creatures join the Zoo family and enjoy their large outdoor enclosure, pond and natural sunlight.”

Cr Rutherford said the turtles are yet to be named, and that Rockhampton Zoo is encouraging the community to help decide.

“The Rockhampton Zoo team have chosen potential names for each turtle - who are a male and a female - and would love our Zoo Facebook family to help choose the final names.

“Head over to Rockhampton Zoo’s Facebook Page and vote on your favourites.”

The Rockhampton Zoo is open 10am – 4pm every day, and entry is free.