New research has unveiled world-first footage and data revealing just what vulnerable flatback turtles are doing in the waters off Western Australia's Kimberley.
The turtles are endemic to shallow coastal waters and one of five species that nest along the state's north-west coast.
Researchers from Murdoch University, with support from the WA government, have been studying turtles in Roebuck Bay in Broome for more than eight years.
The research team used turtle trackers comprising of motion sensors, GPS and video cameras to monitor the creatures' movements and feeding habits.
Analysis of the data will inform behaviour-specific conservation efforts in Broome's Yawuru Nagulagun Roebuck Bay Marine Park and contribute to a richer understanding of the vulnerable species.
A turtle's-eye view