Murray River Turtle

Adventure step • Meet the species

Overview

The Murray River turtle is one of Australia's most recognizable freshwater turtles, inhabiting rivers along Australia's eastern coast, particularly within the Murray-Darling river system that gives the species its name. With its smooth, elongated shell in shades of brown or olive-green and the remarkable ability to breathe underwater through its cloaca, this turtle is perfectly adapted for life in slow-moving rivers and lakes. Adults reach a shell length of 20-35 centimeters and can weigh between 0.8 and 3.5 kilograms, with females typically growing larger than males. This turtle belongs to the family Chelidae, the side-necked turtles, meaning it retracts its head sideways under its shell rather than straight back like most other turtles. This unique trait makes the Murray River turtle easily identifiable. It spends most of its time underwater hunting small fish, crustaceans, insect larvae, and aquatic plants. With powerful webbed feet and a streamlined body, it is an accomplished swimmer capable of moving quickly when pursuing prey or escaping threats. The Murray River turtle is known for its longevity and can live 25-50 years in the wild, sometimes even longer in captivity. During spring and early summer, females lay their eggs in sandbanks or earth mounds along riverbanks, often several meters from the water. A clutch may contain 8-25 eggs that hatch after approximately 60 days, depending on temperature. Newly hatched young are only 2-3 centimeters long and must quickly reach the water to avoid predatory birds and other predators. Although the species remains relatively common in many areas, the Murray River turtle faces threats from habitat loss, water pollution, and the introduction of invasive species such as foxes that prey on eggs. It is also popular as a pet in Australia and worldwide, leading to illegal trade. Conservation programs work to protect nesting sites and restore natural river environments to ensure the species' future.