PREFACE
This review of the loggerhead turtle provides the first comprehensive collation of biological data for the
species. While peer-reviewed scientific publications are the most significant source of information for
the species, there is a large body of additional information available from many other sources within
Australia. In particular, I have drawn together data contained in many unpublished reports on file in
various government and non-government agencies. In addition, relevant information has been
obtained from newspaper reports and from books and journals describing the early exploration and
natural history of Australia. The review provides a comprehensive summary of information available up
to August 2004.
To provide a more comprehensive summary of available information, previously unpublished data
drawn from the Queensland Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Turtle Conservation Project
database have been summarised and included. These data are a collation of the results of private
research undertaken by myself since 1968 and turtle research undertaken by EPA staff and trained
volunteers within foraging and nesting populations in Queensland and adjacent areas within Australia
and neighbouring countries.
My understanding of sea turtle biology has been greatly enhanced through collaborative studies with
Dr John Parmenter, Dr Craig Moritz, Dr David Owens and Dr Joan Whittier and their respective post-
graduate students.
Many folks have assisted in the preparation of this review both directly and indirectly. I am particularly
indebted to the assistance and support that I received from Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service
staff, in particular Dr Jeff Miller and Duncan Limpus and others who worked in our field studies: Barry
Lyon, David Walters, Valonna Baker, Annette Fleay, Phillip Read, Emma Gyuris, Darryl Reimer, Mark
Deacon, Ian Bell, Cathy Gatley and John Meech. Keith Morris, Dr Bob Prince and Kelly Pendoley
provided guidance regarding turtles in Western Australia. Dr Mick Guinea, Dr Scott Whiting, Ray
Chatto and Dr Rod Kennett assisted with information regarding turtles in the Northern Territory.
Production of this report has been funded in part by the Australian Department of Environment and
Heritage. Dr Jeff Miller and Keith Morris, as peer reviewers, provided constructive criticism of the text.
This assistance is gratefully acknowledged.
Colin J. Limpus
December 2008
READ THE FULL WHITE PAPER
Want to know more:
Watch the full Back from the Brink series here
Listen to the Podcast here
