Will they visit?: Western Swamp Tortoise have a specialised habitat. They are known to wander into dams located near their habitat.
Natural Distribution: Isolated populations throughout the Perth region
Western Swamp Tortoise – Perth NRM (C)
Western Swamp Tortoise – (C) Friends of Western Swamp Tortoise
Western Swamp Tortoise – (C) Nicki Mitchell
Western Swamp Tortoise – (C) Friends of Western Swamp Tortoise
Western Swamp Tortoise – (C) Friends of Western Swamp Tortoise
Habitat at a Glance
See Habitat Guide for more detail
Shelter: Under ground in burrows, thick leaf litter, and under logs
Diet: Aquatic invertebrates, tadpoles
Water: Not required
ReWild Benefit: Pest control
Habitat Guide - Shelter
Natural Shelter
The tortoises spend their summers in aestivation (summer hibernation) under leaf litter, in thick undergrowth, under fallen timber, or in underground burrows. After the winter rains, the tortoises emerge to feed and lay their eggs.
Novel Shelter
Not required.
Habitat Guide - Food and Water
Providing natural sources of food
Not required.
Providing sources of water
Not required.
ReWild Benefits
The Western Swamp Tortoise is rarest reptile in Australia and is only found near Perth! Perth Zoo manages a captive breeding program to conserve the species. Young tortoises often leave their protected reserves and find themselves in farm dams, traversing roads, or attacked by feral animals. If you think you have spotted a Western Swamp Tortoise, you should notify the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.