Eastern snake-necked turtle
Found across most of NSW, the eastern snake-necked turtle, also known as the eastern long-necked turtle, can be found in swamps, lakes and inland waterways. This freshwater turtle is carnivorous and lives most of its life submerged on the water’s edge, searching for worms and snails.
Read more about Eastern snake-necked turtle
The eastern snake-necked turtle is the most widespread species of freshwater turtle in Australia. It lives in slow-moving rivers, lakes and waterways across most of NSW, but is often found wandering on land.
The carnivorous snake-necked turtle has nostrils on the tip of its snout, so it can breathe while partially submerged in water searching for worms, snails and insect larvae.
If threatened, the eastern snake-necked turtle will withdraw its head and expel a pungent odour to repel predators.
The eastern snake-necked turtle is a side-necked turtle, which means that its head bends sideways into its shell, rather than directly back.
Animal facts
- Common name
- Eastern snake-necked turtle
- Scientific name
- Chelodina longicollis
- Conservation status in NSW
- Protected