Release of Temple Turtles

About a month ago we rescued over 60 turtles from deplorable conditions at a temple. They spent this time rehabilitating in our new enclosures with fresh food, water, and shelter. 27 (Black Marsh, Giant Asian Pond, Mountain Hinged, Box, and Snail Eating) vulnerable and endangered turtles were released this week within a protected area where they have access to a lake and heavily wooded mountainous terrain.

Most turtle and tortoise species throughout the world are listed as endangered. They are captured for local consumption in vast numbers, by people living in rural areas, while regional networks of hunters and traders also work to supply restaurants and international markets. Turtles are heavily exploited for their eggs, for use in traditional medicines, and juveniles are harvested for the pet trade. Intensifying these threats are the effects of habitat destruction, with wetland drainage, pollution, and the construction of reservoirs, dams, and flood defense structures, all adding to the endangerment of the Testudines.