It is too early to make assumptions regarding a decline or increase in turtle numbers in our area. Historically we do not have any evidence of numbers of nesting activity prior to the past 12 years. We can only refer to our monitoring data during these 12 years which shows quite a variation in numbers from year to year, hopefully as the data increases any trend will be clearly seen.

Flatback turtle facts to consider

Researchers have identified several independent stocks of flatback populations in Australia . Genetic research has shown that (and this is true of other species also) these stocks or populations within the species do not interbreed. What this means is, if one of the stocks is threatened and numbers fall there may be no recovery. The stocks for the flatback have been identified as:

•  The East Australian population, centred in the Southern Barrier Reef with approx. 1000 nesting females annually.
•  The Northeastern Gulf of Carpentaria population. Approx 3000 nesting females annually.
•  The Southern Gulf of Carpentaria population. Approx. 1000 nesting females annually.
•  The Eastern Arnhem Land population. Imprecise count ?1000s nesting females annually.
•  The Western Arnhem Land population. Imprecise count possibly 7000 nesting females annually.
•  The Northwest Shelf population. Imprecise count possibly in the hundreds nesting females annually.

Looking at the above information it can be seen that the number of nesting flatbacks on mainland beaches in the Mackay district represent approx. 10% of the East Australian population.

Hatching:

•  Stand back from the nest. If you approach too closely you may crush hatchlings still underneath the sand.
•  Turn off all lights as they could disorient the hatchlings and lead them away from the sea.
•  Let the hatchlings make their own way down the beach to the sea. Do not pick them up and carry them to the water. It is important that hatchlings be allowed to make their own way down the beach as this process is believed to imprint the hatchlings with cues necessary to be able to find their way back to the same area when they reach breeding maturity.
•  If you happen across hatchlings that have been disoriented by an artificial light and have strayed onto parking areas or roadways it is OK to put them in a bucket and transport them immediately to the beach. They should then be released at the top of the beach away from any artificial light influence and let them make their own way to the sea.
•  Report any hatching activity to the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.

Nesting:

•  Keep the use of lights to a minimum while on the beach. Lights and turtles don't go well together. It is amazing how many people think a torch is necessary to find your way on the beach at night. Turn off that light and as your night vision settles down you will be surprised at how much you can see.
•  Do not light fires on the beach.
•  Walk the beach at about the high tide mark to look for turtles.
•  Do not approach closely or shine lights on turtles on the beach. Be patient while the turtle is preparing her nest.
•  Avoid loud noise and sudden movement.
•  Once the turtle is actually laying eggs, lights do not normally disturb her, but please do not shine lights directly at her head.
•  Flashlight photos should not be taken until the turtle has finished laying.
•  Keep domestic animals away from the beach.
•  Check the turtle for any tags that may be present and note down the number.
•  Report the location, date and time of any turtle nesting to Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.
•  Learn about the habits and needs of marine turtles.

Research has shown that incubation temperature determines the sex of the hatchling. At a certain temperature (The pivotal temperature) a nest will produce 50% male and 50% female hatchlings. As temperature falls short or exceeds the pivotal temperature the sex of the hatchlings will be biased one way or the other. In the case of sea turtles the cooler the temperature more males will be produced and the hotter the temperature more females will be produced.

Our records of the past 12 years, indicates that the mainland beaches in this area are producing predominately female hatchlings. Preliminary information in regard to the offshore island sites, indicate that at least some of them may be producing predominately male hatchlings. More temperature research on the offshore island sites needs to be completed.

BEST PRACTICES FOR SUCCESSFUL TURTLE WATCHING

Marine turtles are protected animals. Only authorised persons are permitted to handle marine turtles, their nest sites and hatchlings. It is an offence for unauthorised persons to interfere with these animals. Mackay Turtle Watch Association members have received proper training and are authorised under a Scientific Puposes Permit issued by the Queensland Environmental Protection Agency.