Behind-the-scenes at Perth Zoo, the latest cohort of tiny critically endangered Western Swamp Turtles (also known as Western Swamp Tortoises) have made their way into the world.
Over the past weeks, 46 hatchlings have ventured from nests to begin exploring.
These rare reptiles are independent as soon as they hatch - the latest babies have wasted no time investigating their habitats and even having their first swims!
Perth Zoo Science staff have been keeping a close eye on the young as part of the collaborative breeding program working to save the species from extinction.
Excitingly, this number of hatchlings is expected to continue growing this season. The Zoo's expert animal carers will continue to closely monitor the Swampies in the Zoo's specialised behind-the-scenes breeding facility.
Since 1989, Perth Zoo has led the collaborative program that breeds and releases these rare turtles to re-establish populations in the wild.
Through the program, more than 1400 turtles have been bred, of which more than 1148 have been released back into safe wild habitat.
Western Swamp Turtles are one of Australia's most endangered reptiles and are endemic to WA.
For more than a century, the species was believed to be extinct. By chance they were rediscovered by a schoolboy in 1953 and a small population was found in two habitats near the Swan Valley.
Science and conservation managers within Perth Zoo and the wider Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions work together to release these zoo-born animals into the wild.
If you love Swampies as much as we do, now's the time to help us make a difference!
Over the past 30 years, Perth Zoo has been working to save WA iconic species from extinction including critically endangered Western Swamp Turtles, endangered Numbats, critically endangered Hairy Marron and critically endangered White-bellied Frogs.
As a conservation agency, Perth Zoo is majority self-funded and any donation - big or small - will make a big impact on the future WA's wildlife. Find out more here.