Turtle disappearances put population under threat

As part of the current restoration work at the wetland, about 70 oblong turtles were taken to a nearby fenced enclosure, where City of Bayswater rangers believed that they would be safe.

Mayor Sylvan Albert expressed his shock that so many of the turtles had disappeared.

"It would appear someone has gone to great lengths to get to, and illegally capture, the wetland turtles," he said.

"Notwithstanding this, we are also looking into the possibility of predation, with extra on-site measures to prevent theft and predation now implemented.

"The turtle population will take a long time to recover from this."

Cr Albert has asked residents to be vigilant to help prevent any potential further thefts of wildlife.

"If you have seen or do see anything suspicious around the bird sanctuary, contact our Ranger and Security Service on 9272 0972," he said.

The incident was reported to the Department of Parks and Wildlife.

A department spokeswoman said it was conducting an investigation into the alleged theft of the turtles.