Madagascan big-headed turtle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Madagascan big-headed turtle |
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| Photographed at Berenty Reserve | |
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| Genus: |
Erymnochelys
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| Species: |
madagascariensis
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The Madagascan big-headed turtle (Erymnochelys madagascariensis) is a special kind of turtle. It lives in the slow-moving rivers and lakes of western Madagascar. These turtles are in great danger. Experts say they are one of the most endangered turtles in the world. Because they are so old and rare, they are a top priority for conservation efforts.
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A Unique Ancient Turtle
The Madagascan big-headed turtle is very special. It is the only member of its ancient turtle family, called Podocnemidae, that lives outside of South America. This turtle separated from its closest living relatives about 78 million years ago. That was during the time of the dinosaurs!
What Does It Look Like?
This turtle has a hard, dark brown shell. The shell covers and protects all the soft parts of its body. As its name suggests, it also has a very large head. Young turtles have fine black lines on their shells. These lines fade away as the turtles get older.
The Madagascan big-headed turtle eats many different things. This is unlike some of its relatives, which only eat plants.
Where Do They Live?
This species lives in large areas of freshwater. This includes slow-moving rivers, quiet backwaters, and lakes. Young turtles often move into smaller rivers. Here, they can grow quickly and safely. Once they are bigger, they move into deeper and larger bodies of water.
Turtle Home Range
You can find these turtles in the western lowland areas of Madagascar.
Why Are They in Danger?
The main reason these turtles are in danger is that people catch them for food. They are caught using nets, fish traps, and hooks with lines. They are also hunted for illegal export to Asia. In Asia, they are used in traditional medicine markets. Another big threat is land development. This destroys the natural places where the turtles live.
Even though they are close to disappearing, these turtles are still commonly eaten. They are also shipped from Madagascar to Asia. This meets the demand for traditional medicine.
Helping the Madagascan Big-Headed Turtle
Many groups are working to save these turtles. A special program has started to breed them in safe places. This helps prevent the species from becoming extinct. The Turtle Conservation Fund (TCF) is raising money to protect them. Their plan includes breeding turtles and releasing them back into the wild. They also monitor trade, create rescue centers, and teach people about conservation.
