The Western Swamp Tortoise is the most endangered Australian reptile. With your support, we’re bringing this species back from the brink of extinction.

How can you help Perth Zoo save the Western Swamp Tortoise?

Since 1989, Perth Zoo has bred more than 800 Western Swamp Tortoises of which 741 have been released to boost their numbers in the wild.

Tortoise hatchlings spend at least three years at Perth Zoo before they’re big enough to be released into wild habitats managed by the Department of Parks and Wildlife. Release sites include Twin Swamps Nature Reserve, Ellenbrook Nature Reserve, Mogumber Nature Reserve and Moore River Nature Reserve.

Threats

The Western Swamp Tortoise is vulnerable to changes including land clearing for housing and agriculture, the use of pesticides and fertilisers and fire. Climate change also poses a potential threat. Perth has recently experienced drier winters. If swamps dry too early, females may not produce eggs. Feral predators like cats, rats and foxes also eat tortoises and tortoise eggs. 

What Does My Donation Go Towards?

One hundred percent of your tax deductible donation will help protect wildlife as Perth Zoo covers all donation administration costs. General donations to Perth Zoo help us in our goal towards saving wildlife, including through our Native Species Breeding program.

Learn more about the Western Swamp Tortoise here.

Donate Now

Help Perth Zoo save wildlife by making a donation today!

You can choose to donate to programs in the wild or help us build your future zoo, a zoo that moves with you.

Your donation will help us save wildlife locally and globally and create a better zoo.