It’s illegal to trade South American Matamata turtles, but their distinctive knobby shell and ridged neck make them appealing to traffickers who can sell them for high prices in Europe, Asia, and the US. Fortunately, a new rapid DNA test is helping officials protect these little … [Read more...] about Rapid DNA tests return trafficked turtles to their original habitats
Turtles
Over 100 endangered turtle hatchlings released after rescue from the cold
In early February, a nest of 113 endangered loggerhead turtle eggs was discovered on a beach in northern New South Wales, Australia, and reported to the National Parks and Wildlife Service. Because the eggs were laid late in the season, the conservationists feared that the … [Read more...] about Over 100 endangered turtle hatchlings released after rescue from the cold
Over 90,000 turtles born in rare Brazilian hatching event
It’s been a big year for turtles, with the pandemic allowing turtles to hatch on beaches that are free of humans. This week, however, a remarkable hatching event took place on the Purus River in Brazil as a reported 90,000 giant South American river turtles were … [Read more...] about Over 90,000 turtles born in rare Brazilian hatching event
Conservation win: South Carolina bans commercial trade of native turtles
Following increasing pressure from wildlife conservation groups, the state of South Carolina has finally passed legislation banning the commercial trade of native turtles, along with amphibians and other reptiles. Signed by the state’s governor Henry McMaster, the new bill makes … [Read more...] about Conservation win: South Carolina bans commercial trade of native turtles
Conservationists bring turtle species back from the brink of extinction
Though naturally endowed with a heartwarming smile on their faces, the fate of the Burmese roofed turtles has been far from uplifting. Only 20 years ago, the giant Asian river turtle, characterized by its bug-eyed, smiling face, was thought to be extinct by conservationists, … [Read more...] about Conservationists bring turtle species back from the brink of extinction