Guwahati, Dec 6: A new collaboration between Kaziranga Tiger Reserve (KTR) and TSA Foundation India (TSAFI) is making strides in the conservation of the critically endangered Black Softshell Turtle, native to the Brahmaputra basin.
Classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, this species faces a precarious future. In response, the Assam Forest Department and TSAFI have launched an initiative focused on the recovery of the species, particularly in the Biswanath Wildlife Division of KTR.
Conservation in Action
A key component of the initiative is the protection and artificial incubation of turtle eggs from the Nagshankar Temple in Biswanath district. Each year, hundreds of eggs, at risk from predators, are carefully collected and incubated. After three months, the hatchlings receive neonatal care before being released into selected wetlands during the post-monsoon season. Some are also head-started for future release.
Pilot Release Event
At the pilot release event on December 5, MLA Padma Hazarika emphasized the importance of community involvement in conservation. Mr Khagesh Pegu, Divisional Forest Officer of Biswanath Wildlife Division, urged similar conservation programs. TSAFI’s Project Coordinator, Sushmita Kar, described the Black Softshell Turtle as the “Vultures of the Water” due to their vital role in maintaining aquatic ecosystems.
The event was supported by local leaders, community members, students from Kusumtola High School, and forest staff.
A Growing Success
Since the project’s launch, over 600 Black Softshell Turtles have been released into their natural habitat. Each release site is carefully assessed to ensure the turtles’ survival and integration into the wild. This initiative offers hope for the species and serves as a model for future conservation efforts.
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