The swamp in question is actually the last stand for the short-necked western swamp turtle. Since the Swan Coastal Plains were drained to increase the land available for urban and agricultural uses, most of the lakes and ephemeral swamps have disappeared. The paperbark trees still standing on the remaining uncleared airport land are vanishing remnants of those wetter times. 'Swamp' is by it's nature a misleading term which may suggest 'slimy mud holes' to some viewers. In fact the swamps were filled with crystal clear water and many fish and animals. The permanent lakes were much larger and deeper than today. We've lost so many native animals, reptiles, birds, marsupials etc. that it is probably not unreasonable that provision is made to continuing protection of these turtles/tortoises. Federal airports used to be amazing wildlife refuges with their remnant native vegetation remaining mainly intact. The bushland with it's 'soft' textures also provided considerable mitigation for aircraft noise. Since privatisation this land has been a source of riches for the airport companies who mainly see aviation as a side kick to property development. I'm sure the second runway, the turtle thingys and even the rumoured 'sweet lipped froggies' should be able to reach a working relationship!
Last edited by flyingfox; 4th Sep 2013 at 08:13.