Keep an eye out for eastern long-necked turtles while driving on roads

Due to rain and warm weather, turtles and lizards start coming out of brumation, also called as hibernation, around this time and are often spotted on the roads.

Ms Heatley herself has been on four callouts in the past week and is currently caring for five turtles and two lizards in her Bywong home.

She had recently released 'Lego', which was found on the road in Queanbeyan by a member of the public after being hit by a car and was treated by a local wildlife vet.

"He had to have his front leg amputated and in rehab for five months before being released," she added.

Ms Heatley asks drivers to be careful on the roads as they may not be able to spot a turtle as easily as they can see a kangaroo.

If one comes across an injured turtle, Wildcare advises them to gently pick it up by holding the front of the head and tail. Do not be scared as the turtles do not bite and the head will go into the shell.

Never put an injured turtle in water. Wrap it in a blanket and keep it in a box as being still is helpful in the situation. Take it to a local vet if you think that the turtle is injured.

If the turtle is healthy, then pick it up from the front and back, hold it at an arm's length and release it as far off the road as possible in the direction it was heading towards.

Ms Heatley asks people to keep an eye out for lizards on the roads as well. Usually, Eastern Blue-tongue, Blotched Blue-tongue and Shingleback lizards are spotted in the region.

"As they come out of hibernation, they start wandering around and find a tarmac and lay down there to warm up. That's when we can see them on the roads which is the worst place to warm up," she added.

"They can survive some nasty accidents. So, if anyone sees an injured one on the road then take it to a vet."

Call Wildcare helpline 6299 1966 for help and advice.