Leatherback turtle sightings could indicate return to Queensland shores to nest

Rare sightings of leatherback turtles off the coast of Bundaberg could signal a return of nesting on Australian shores. Key points: Leatherback turtles have not nested on Australian shores in 25 years Researchers hope the sighting of a mating pair will see them nest locally An early start to the Mon Repos nesting season suggests turtles are adapting to climate change Passengers and crew aboard recent whale-watching tours have been treated to three sightings of the rare creature, including a mating pair. Hope for a threatened species Sightings of mating leatherback turtles are especially rare, with the last leatherback turtle breeding season in Australia taking place 25 years ago. Looking for a cool change The leatherback sightings come as the first flatback turtle arrived on Mon Repos beach for nesting season on October 9, a month earlier than expected. "As the beaches are getting excessively hot for them in mid-summer, we now see them starting their nesting earlier when beaches are cooler," Dr Limpus said, adding that the change in habit was encouraging.