What does it look like?
Endemic to Eastern Australia, snake-neck turtles are a semi-aquatic species, preferring slow moving water such as wetlands, lakes, dams and ponds. They can also be found in streams, rivers and urban environments, but this is less common. The species prefers to forage in cooler temperatures, so is more active at night.
Considered medium-sized turtles, the species grows to an average length of 25cm. Females are slightly larger than males and juveniles tend to be black to dark grey with an orange stripe down either side of the neck and jaw. They also have orange spots on the chest.
They have a light brown to black oval shell, with a shallow groove in the middle. The underside of the shell is cream-coloured with dark seams. As their name would suggest, their necks are long and narrow, with a brown to grey upper surface and yellow underneath.
Females are slightly larger than males. Juveniles tend to be black to dark grey with an orange stripe down either side of the neck and jaw, and they also have orange spots on the chest.
Why is it a problem?
If left unmanaged and populations become dense in a particular area, it can negatively impact stream or river ecosystems. By removing key components of the food web, the species disrupts ecological balance, often leading to poor water quality. This degradation not only affects native species but can also make waterways unsuitable for human use.
Control methods
Snake-neck turtles are not currently known to be in Hawke's Bay. If you think you have seen snake neck turtles, please notify us immediately on 06 835 9200.
Notify Council
If you think you've found this pest, please get in touch with our Biosecurity Team at biosecurity@hbrc.govt.nz or call us on 0800 108 838.
Rules
Sections 52 and 53 of the Biosecurity Act (1993)
No person shall knowingly communicate, cause to be communicated, release, or cause to be released, or otherwise spread any pest or unwanted organism, in accordance with Sections 52 and 53 of the Biosecurity Act 1993
More informationSection 26ZM of the Conservation Act (1987)
In accordance with the Conservation Act 1987 section 26ZM, no person shall transfer live aquatic life or release live aquatic life into any freshwater. This includes native or introduced fish, plants, and invertebrates. The taking and holding of some organisms requires a special permit from MPI.
More informationTaxonomies
FamilyChelidae
TypeAnimals
GroupReptile
HabitatFreshwater
RulesSections 52 and 53 of the Biosecurity Act (1993)Section 26ZM of the Conservation Act (1987)
