600 critically endangered Black Softshell Turtles released into natural habitat in Kaziranga

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaDecember 6, 2024

In a groundbreaking conservation achievement, 600 critically endangered Black Softshell Turtles (Nilssonia nigricans) have been successfully reintroduced into their natural habitat at Biswanath within the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve (KTR). This effort, part of a joint initiative by the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve and the TSA Foundation India, is focused on reversing the decline of this species, which is endemic to the Brahmaputra basin.

The Assam Forest Department and TSA Foundation India launched the initiative specifically focusing on the Biswanath Wildlife Division. The project’s success hinges on collaboration between local communities, conservationists, and government entities. The Nagshankar Temple in Biswanath district plays a pivotal role, serving as a critical site for egg collection and incubation.

Each year, eggs at risk from predators like mongooses and feral dogs are carefully collected from temple ponds and incubated under expert supervision. Hatchlings are nurtured for three months before most are released into protected wetlands post-monsoon. A small subset of turtles is head-started for gradual release to ensure higher survival rates.

The recent release event, attended by local MLA Padma Hazarika, forest officials, students, and community representatives, highlighted the importance of public involvement in conservation.

Sushmita Kar, Project Coordinator for TSA Foundation India, emphasized the turtles’ ecological significance, calling them the “Vultures of the Water” due to their critical scavenging role in maintaining aquatic health.

Each release site is carefully evaluated for habitat suitability, ensuring the turtles’ safety and successful reintegration into the wild. This meticulous approach, combined with local community support, has enabled the program to release over 600 turtles since its inception, offering hope for recovering this critically endangered species.

This initiative not only safeguards the future of the Black Softshell Turtle but also strengthens the health of aquatic ecosystems in the Brahmaputra basin, setting an inspiring precedent for conservation efforts worldwide.

As the initiative continues, it sets a benchmark for similar conservation programmes across the region, offering hope for the long-term recovery of the Black Softshell Turtle population.