AUGUST 2009

TSATURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE Transforming passion for turtles into effective conservation action through a global network of living collections and recovery programs WWW.TURTLESURVIVAL.ORG

The Northern Spider Tortoise, (Pyxis arachnoides brygooi) See Cover Story on p.5 Peter Praschag, Behler Chelonian Center

1 From the President's Desk Ability to respond rapidly is what sets TSA apart

s I write this letter, we have just received news that the female Rafetus has laid her first clutch of 56 eggs at Suzhou Zoo for the 2009 Aseason. After suffering last year’s disappointing news, the TSA regrouped and is giving it 100%, addressing some of the problems seen in 2008. We hope to be able to report soon that the world’s population of Rafetus has grown by fourteen-fold and to show the first photographs of a live hatchling R. swinhoei. When Dr. Gerald Kuchling’s email message arrived with this much-anticipated news, he requested that we try and find funding for a camcorder to mount over theRafetus nesting beach that would make finding eggs easier. I forwarded the email to the new TSA Board and almost immediately David Shapiro responded from Hong Kong, offering up the $1,400 requested. It struck me later what an amazing example this was of the TSA network’s strength, and our ability to respond to turtle conservation issues around the globe. No other turtle conservation organization is positioned to respond as rapidly or effectively as the TSA.

Another notable strength of the TSA is our global network of veterinarians that can mobilize quickly when situations demand. When a disease problem was identified in the only range country assurance colony for the endangered Philippine forest turtle (Siebenrockiella leytensis), the TSA sent Dr. Nimal Fernando from Ocean Park Hong Kong to Palawan to investigate. Later in September, a TSA team will follow up with a site visit to help design a new filtration system to improve water quality for this important group of turtles. In August, a TSA team will visit Myanmar to begin designing new turtle rescue and assurance colony facilities, and then move on to Malaysia where plans for new turtle centers are taking shape. Expertise in captive management and facility design are well represented within the TSA partnership, and these skills are becoming more in demand as captive populations become integrated into species recovery plans.

Looking back on the past year, we have witnessed some significant events and made serious progress towards protecting endangered species and populations in Asia as well as Madagascar. In January 2009, we organized Team Burma that conducted workshops in Myanmar, drafting a Plan for saving the Burmese roofed turtle (Batagur trivittata) and developing an improved strategy for handling confiscated turtles and tortoises. Just prior to our arrival, staff at Mandalay’s Yadanabon Zoo found a 2008 hatchedB. trivittata in the adult breeding pond, the first worldwide captive breeding of this rare turtle. From Myanmar, a subset of Team Burma proceeded on to Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia and Singapore – a five country “tour of duty” in just over a month. Watch for future news as we initiate new programs and partnerships in these countries, particularly Malaysia where the Royal Turtle Institute is being planned near Terengganu, under the direction and watchful eye of longtime TSA collaborator Dr. Engheng Chan.

TSA’s new Madagascar Program is raising funds that will be directed toward protecting the last wild populations of the Ploughshare tortoise (Astrochelys yniphora). Collaboration with the Behler Chelonian Center and San Diego Zoo will direct much needed support to building a network of monitoring stations that can help guard against poachers. The TSA is also supporting captive enclosure improvements for spider tortoises (Pyxis arachnoides) at the Village des Tortues in Ifaty. This facility maintains sizeable groups of both radiated and spider tortoises (all three subspecies), and holds the largest group of the northern race - brygooi - the most imperiled of Madagascar’s dwarf tortoises. We are developing a close working relationship with Mr. Bernard Devaux - the visionary behind the tortoise village concept and founder of this important facility – and we look forward to a productive partnership as we join forces to address the needs of Madagascar’s increasingly imperiled tortoises.

Finally, the TSA underwent a major restructuring in 2009 and has emerged as a full-fledged non-profit conservation NGO that now operates outside of the IUCN structure. With a new Board of Directors and expanded committees that better reflect the global composition of TSA, our new structure is at once more corporate, more accountable to donors and supporters, and more responsive to the needs of our members and the challenges of turtle conservation. The Board’s first major action was identifying funds to hire Heather Lowe full-time as TSA’s Program Coordinator and she “hit the ground running” essentially doubling our membership numbers in the first two months.

To those of you receiving this at home, or if you recently joined the TSA, we thank you for your continued support in these difficult economic times. If you are joining us in St. Louis, here’s wishing you a productive and enjoyable conference. As you interact with your colleagues, and sit through presentations and workshops, take notice of how diverse the TSA network has become. This unique partnership – the alliance – continues to be our core strength that sets us apart from other organizations. We must maintain our shared vision and commitment to zero turtle extinctions and remember to always let our passion for turtles drive our work for their survival. Rick Hudson, President

2 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE In This Issue

FEATURES

4 Introduction 5 Cover Story TURTLE SURVIVAL 13 Board of Directors 16 Staff ALLIANCE BOARD 17 Membership 19 Animal Management Rick Hudson, President 20 Significant Breedings Dwight Lawson, PhD, Vice President 22 Golden Coin Box Turtle Genetics Chuck Landrey, Secretary 24 TSA Partner News - Behler Chelonian Center Walter Sedgwick, Treasurer 28 TSA Europe Scott Davis, PhD, Executive Director 38 TSA Africa 40 TSA Partner News – TCF Bill Holmstrom 42 North America John Iverson, PhD Patricia Koval RANGE COUNTRY PROGRAMS John Mitchell Colin Poole 56 Myanmar Hugh Quinn, PhD 66 India 76 Madagascar Anders Rhodin, MD 78 China David Shapiro 82 Vietnam Frank Slavens 90 Malaysia F. William Zeigler 94 Cambodia 96 Philippines Advisory Committee EXCLUSIVES, NEWS, & ANNOUNCEMENTS Gary Ades Bernard Devaux 98 Medical Tomas Diagne 100 Behler Turtle Conservation Award Doug Hendrie 101 Donor Recognition Brian Horne Gerald Kuchling Sue Lieberman For membership information, or to contact the TSA please visit: www. TurtleSurvival.org Or send your correspondence to: Turtle Survival Alliance 1989 Bill Ninesling Colonial Parkway, Fort Worth TX 76110 Jackie Litzgus Peter Praschag Maurice Rodrigues The northern spider tortoise (Pyxis arachnoides brygooi) was selected as Peter Paul van Dijk the cover photo and story because it is emblematic of the TSA’s multi-faceted Dick Vogt conservation strategy for species ranked Henk Zwartepoorte critically endangered, emphasizing both field research (in situ) and captive management (ex situ). The TSA helped fund Ryan Walker’s 2009 Pyxis field surveys Program Coordinator that revealed the precarious situation that Heather Lowe this little tortoise faces in nature. In late 2008 the TSA funded new Pyxis (including brygooi) breeding enclosures at the Village des Tortues in Ifaty, home of a substantial range country assurance colony for this increasingly threatened tortoise. Finally the TSA purchased a long-term captive breeding group of 21 brygooi, thereby AUGUST 2009 TSA NEWSLETTER © 2 0 0 9 T S A doubling the size of the U.S. assurance colony. See story p.5

DESIGN & LAYOUT: JOHN BINNS WWW.IRCF.ORG INTERNATIONAL REPTILE CONSERVATION FOUNDATION WWW. TURTLESURVIVAL.ORG

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 3 Introduction

Reflections on the TSA Magazine

Rick Hudson

all it what you will, but our once-little newsletter has grown into a full-fledged magazine. It also serves as the nearest thing the TSA has Cto an annual report and is a useful “calling card” for potential donors. But we see this publication as much more than that. The projects described herein are not simply the work of the TSA but reflect the work of the TSA network and our many partner organizations. Yes, it is heavy on articles written about TSA programs and projects for which TSA has provided financial support. However we also like to feature news and articles from our partner organizations such as TSA Europe, the Turtle Conservation Fund and the Behler Chelonian Center. We work closely and strategically with these organizations and consider them an integral part of the “TSA Family.” All of us share a common commitment to prevent turtle extinctions. We see the TSA magazine in a much broader sense than simply a TSA PR effort - that being one that serves the larger turtle conservation community and helps publicize the good work that people are accomplishing around the globe. This year we have added by-lines at the end of each article that describes the relationship between he TSA and a particular project or organization. We hope you will continue to view this publication in this light – seen through a wide lens – as one that is truly reflective of the remarkable and selfless work that so many dedicated people are doing to help save turtles. Because in the end, who gets credit for doing the work is far less important than getting the job done.

4 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE Cover Story

Building Partnerships to Save Madagascar’s Imperiled Tortoises

Rick Hudson and Michael Ogle

Southwestern Madagascar he tortoises of southwestern Madagascar Tare in serious trouble, but fortunately a remarkable duo of devoted tortoise conservationists are working on their behalf through the Village des Tortues at Ifaty. Bernard Devaux and Olivier Razandrimamilafiniarivo (Mami, for short) are running the largest tortoise facility in the south specifically created for these critically endangered tortoises. The facility holds several hundred radiated tortoises (Astrochelys radiata) as well as approximately 1000 specimens of the Madagascar spider tortoise (Pyxis arachnoides). Having nearly 600 Northern spider tortoises (Pyxis a. brygooi), they maintain the largest collection of this, the rarest subspecies, anywhere in the world. In January 2008, we had the opportunity

to tour this excellent facility and meet with ANTOINE CADI Mami. This brief visit catalyzed a developing Bernard Devaux, founder of the Village des Tortues at Ifaty, with the new Pyxis facility funded by the TSA. partnership between TSA and the Village, one that promises to grow stronger with time Measuring 126 square meters (14 x 9 m), the The new exhibit allows smaller groups to and bring much needed resources towards facility is divided into three units for each be maintained in each section, which more the protection of these species. of the three Pyxis subspecies, each with a 9 closely resembles the densities found in the x 4 m space. Fifteen tortoises per subspecies wild. Another potential outcome is improved The illegal trade in all Madagascan tortoises were transferred to the new enclosures in captive management for breeding and future has grown dramatically in the last two mid-November, the beginning of the rainy release. decades, and countless populations have season and the tortoise peak activity period. been decimated by over-collection for the food and pet trades. While only a small portion of the animals are confiscated by Malagasy authorities, it is clear that they need to be properly housed in a facility that met the needs of the species. Obviously, one within their natural range would be optimal. Bernard Devaux, the visionary who created the SOPTOM, or tortoise village, facilities in France and Senegal, brought his expertise and resources to Ifaty. The facility was opened in April 2005 and has needed to expand ever since. In a perfect congruence of circumstances, TSA inquired how we might help, and shortly thereafter we were planning new breeding enclosures for spider tortoises. Program SOKAPILA was born. Construction

got underway in October 2008 and the ANTOINE CADI facilities were completed in November. Inside looking out from one of the new Pyxis breeding enclosures at Ifaty.

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 5 ANTOINE CADI All three subspecies of spider tortoises, Pyxis arachnoides, are managed at the Ifaty compound. From left to right, P. a. oblonga, P. a. arachnoides and P. a. brygooi. The TSA, with support from Roy Young and tortoises of the Southwest, and large numbers that will allow tortoises to be thoroughly Nature’s Own, Los Angeles Zoo, Knoxville have been brought here over the years from checked for parasites and disease symptoms Zoo and the sale of a lot of onyx tortoise confiscations. At the time of our visit, the before being added to the colony. sculptures, has been able to raise thousands Village had recently taken in over 100 spider tortoises and 20 radiated tortoises. To better of dollars to expand tortoise enclosures The TSA looks forward to building a strong handle this responsibility, a new quarantine/ and security at the park. The Village des working relationship with the management hospital facility is now under construction Tortues plays a critical role in protecting the and staff of the Village that will benefit tortoises not only in captivity but also in the wild. To make this a reality Mr. Devaux recently announced Program SOKAKE that is being launched under the able leadership of Antoine Cadi with the goal of re-establishing wild populations of radiated tortoise in areas of former abundance. The first field project will be near the Lac Tsimanampetsotsa Reserve, 150 km to the south of Tulear, and will involve the relevant government agencies as well as French and Malagasy students. The TSA is committed to this ideal and will support the program as it develops. We have a difficult road ahead of us but we believe that strong collaborations and partnerships are the way forward and with perseverance, we can secure a future for the remarkable tortoises of RICK HUDSON the spiny deserts of southwest Madagascar. Entrance to the Village des Tortues at Ifaty. 

6 AUGUST 2008 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE Ploughshare tortoises n recent years, poaching and smuggling Ifor the international pet trade have posed an increasingly grave threat to the remaining wild populations of ploughshare tortoises, or angonoka (Astrochelys yniphora), and a disturbing number of illegal tortoises now appear on Chinese web sites, or are confiscated in Bangkok, Singapore or Hong Kong. A workshop - Turtles on the Brink - was held January 2008 in Antananarivo to devise a plan of action for Malagasy chelonians, with A. yniphora as the priority species. Among the priority recommendations from the workshop was to stop the poaching and illegal traffic of this species by improving local infrastructure and law enforcement. Specifically, to do so by establishing JOHN BAILEY permanently manned bases close to wild In January 2009, TSA members Robert Krause (left) and John Bailey (far right) visited Madagascar and populations, with more guards and better toured major tortoise sites. They also collected valuable GPS data on Pyxis distribution and installed data loggers in nests at Ifaty. Here, they are shown at Amphijora, presenting a set of calipers to the Durrell equipment. Presently there is insufficient caretakers. infrastructure at the Baly Bay National Park to adequately protect against poaching, and made by DWCT and others over the past 20 The TSA and the BCC are also committed to smugglers are becoming increasing bold in years could be negated within the next five other priority actions from the Action Plan their attempts. unless drastic and substantive measures are including improving the captive breeding taken soon. center, building separate quarantine facilities, Since 1986, the Durrell Wildlife Conservation and expanding the reintroduction program. Trust (DWCT) has led efforts to prevent the The idea of developing monitoring camps, The establishment of ex situ (outside extinction of the angonoka, recognized as better surveillance capacity and an improved Madagascar) captive breeding populations the one of world’s rarest and most critically communications network near core tortoise has also been recommended and is jointly endangered tortoises with fewer than 400 areas in the National Park was first advanced supported by the TSA, BCC and AZA adults in the wild. The captive breeding in 2006 by the DWCT. In response to this, ChAG. These captive groups can be founded center at Amphijora has produced more than the TSA began fundraising to assist this with confiscated tortoises that have been 200 captive born tortoises, 45 of which have process, and earmarked $15,000 in the 2007 seized illegally outside of Madagascar, with been successfully released into natural habitat Batchelor Foundation grant for this purpose. no impact to either the wild populations or at Baly Bay. However, much of the progress Those funds remain unspent. However, in situ captive program. Aside from serving with the Ploughshare Tortoise Action Plan as a genetic reservoir, captive yniphora can be nearing completion (and hopefully, swift utilized to raise funds and generate publicity. approval by government) the monitoring Recently, the TSA coordinated the filing camp concept should be closer to becoming of two CITES import permits for yniphora reality. Anticipating this, the TSA has being held in Hong Kong and Singapore in again undertaken a fundraising campaign order to be prepared if and when specimens and enlisted the assistance of two partner become available for placement. BCC and organizations – Behler Chelonian Center SDZ would be the first U.S. recipients of (BCC) and the San Diego Zoo (SDZ). The these illegally seized tortoises. AZA Chelonian Advisory Group (ChAG) will also contribute funds ($10,000). With a  $25,000 combined annual commitment over three years ($75,000 total) by BCC and SDZ, and with $15,000 in Year One from TSA The TSA began funding construction of and at least $10,000 per year after that, the new Pyxis enclosures at Bernard Devaux's overall minimal funding commitment equals Village des Tortues facility at Ifaty in roughly $50,000 in 2010 and $35,000 in 2008, and looks forward to a long future 2011 and 2012. This is promising, but when of successful collaboration with this im- one considers that a $50,000 powerboat to portant operation. patrol the coast line will have to be purchased MAURICE RODRIGUES Ploughshare tortoise or angonoka, Astrochelys in Year One, it shows that we still have more yniphora funds to raise.

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 7 Cover Story

Comprehensive survey of Spider tortoise distribution in Madagascar gets underway in the north

Ryan CJ Walker

he Madagascar spider tortoise (Pyxis Tarachnoides spp.), or Kapila as the species is referred to locally, has a carapace size of around 15cm, making it one of the world’s smaller tortoise species. With its intricate spider web type patterning on the carapace, it is arguably one of the world’s most beautiful and charismatic chelonia.

During 2008, the species’ IUCN Red List status was changed to Critically Endangered following the Red Listing and Action Planning Turtle Workshop organized in Madagascar by the IUCN/SSC Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group (TFTSG), the TSA and a number of other international conservation NGOs and local Malagasy agencies. Delegates at the meeting also agreed, as part of the Conservation Action Plan for Madagascar’s four threatened, endemic tortoise species, that reliable data be collected on the exact population densities RYAN WALKER and extent of the remaining ranges of these Riana Rakotondrainy taking morphometic data on a spider tortoise. rare animals. To date, most population predictions of Madagascar’s chelonian, with a few exceptions, have been made on dated information, or as in the case of P. arachnoides spp., nothing more than an educated guess! With the sustained threats of poaching for food and the illegal export trade, in addition to pressure from habitat destruction, the remaining wild populations of these four species are thought to have declined greatly during recent times. So for effective conservation to be implemented, we really need to know how many individuals we are dealing with and where these populations now still exist.

Historically, P. arachnoides spp. was through to inhabit a continuous strip of coastal dry forest; covering approximately 560 km of south western Madagascar’s coast line. P. arachnoides spp. is divided into three subspecies with P.a. brygooi inhabiting the northern extent of the range between Morombe and the Manombo River. P. a. RYAN WALKER arachnoides can be found further south as A young Northern Spider Tortoise, (Pyxis a. byrgooi).

8 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE far as the Menarandra River, to this population, a then the extreme southern concentrated population was reaches of the range is detected north of the Baie de inhabited by P. a. oblonga. Fanamotra, in an interesting marginal habitat that was a The question this project mixture of typical coastal hopes to answer is just how dry scrub interspersed with many spider tortoises does mangroves. Finally a small Madagascar have left in population was recorded the wild and where are the around the forests east of last remaining strong holds Morombe at the northern across this species historical extremity of P. a. brygooi’s range? With financial range. support from the TSA, Turtle Conservation Fund, the UK’s The further north we Royal Geographic Society traveled, the more and the British Chelonia communities we passed Group, a small team was where people collect the assembled, comprised of tortoise for food. Until both British and Malagasy several hundred years ago field biologists, with the aim the larger radiated tortoise of traversing the coastal dry (Astrocheys radiata), a species forest range of P. arachnoides sympatric in its range with spp. After three field seasons some of the more southern we hope to have sufficient populations of P. arachnoides data to answer this question. spp., was through to have In addition to this we hope been present in these more to revisit an old survey site northern forests. However, close to the coastal fishing the species’ demise in these community of Anakoa and areas was probably brought monitor the population that about by the Mikea tribe was first studied in 2002. who has hunted the species to extinction within this P. arachnoides spp. is area. Nowadays it appears probably one of the more that the local communities difficult tortoise species to GIS map showing suspected area of occurrence of Pyxis arachnoides brygooi within within this area have directed study in the wild. The cryptic the coastal Mikea Forests of southwest Madagascar as described in the current their collection efforts to the literature (green), compared to areas where tortoises were actually found during this coloration and behavior of study (purple). Note there is an approximately 50% reduction in what was thought smaller spider tortoises. the animal make it quite to be the range of P. a. brygooi and tortoises were found up to 38km south of their difficult to find, in addition suspected area of occurrence. Our return to the 2002 P. to this the species is only a. arachnoides study site really active for a limited period of the year Morombe. Sadly, the subspecies seem to be in Anakao revealed a worrying decline in during the region’s short wet season, which confined to just three isolated areas now, and numbers, with a recorded decline of about makes driving in the region impossible for is far from inhabiting all of what was through 25% in the local population. However, the all but the most skilled local drivers. The to be its historical range. numbers and population size and structure extreme heat of the southern Madagascan was still in a healthier state than many of summer means the species has adopted The first population was discovered around the populations of P. a. brygooi that we were crepuscular behavior and is only active in the the forests of Ifaty and Mangily, with sparse encountering in the north. The tortoises in early morning and late afternoon, plus the numbers stretching north to the Manombo this area appeared not to be under pressure thick spiny vegetation can be a punishing River area. This population supported some by local communities exploiting them for environment to work in, in particular the individuals which displayed interesting food, but instead the habitat had become thick Mikea forests of the north. Despite morphological characteristics, not consistent more fragmented since my field trip to the this, the team has just completed a successful with either P. a. brygooi or P. a. arachnoides, area six years previously, as a result of charcoal first field season (January-March 2009), whereby some animals had the less domed production and livestock grazing. surveying the range of the northern spider shell of P. a. arachnoides but the ridged tortoise (P. a. brygooi). We traversed the plastron hinge of P. a. brygooi. This small The results of this work have already brought range of the subspecies on foot and by 4x4 sub-group was also noticed by Rick Hudson about some positive outcomes for the concentrating our survey effort across areas and Michael Ogle of TSA during their visit conservation of the species. This work has of good forest habitat between Toliara and to the region in January 2008. In addition come at a time when Madagascar has been

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 9 the boundaries slightly of at least one of the areas or introducing some kind of adaptive management to accommodate the nearby population of northern spider tortoises that we discovered.

These data will also be incorporated into the TSA’s GIS database. This database is creating a ‘real time’ map of the current distribution of the remaining spider tortoise populations. Our recent field work is to date, the only comprehensive survey of the distribution and population size for the northern spider tortoise that has ever been undertaken. But we still have a long way to go in understanding the current range and distribution of the whole species. This project aims to undertake a further two field seasons repeating this detailed survey for both P. a. arachnoides and P. a. oblonga. The project has made a positive start but we still have a lot of work to do. The TSA will continue RYAN WALKER Typical coastal spiny forest of southwestern Madagascar inhabited by Pyxis. fundraising efforts to support this range wide survey. Spider tortoises are considered a keystone of the TSA’s Madagascar program, both in and ex situ.

Ryan CJ Walker Nautilus Ecology

Department of Life Sciences Open University Milton Keynes MK7 6AA, United Kingdom [email protected]

Professional affiliation: RW is a freelance ecologist, conservation biologist and the founder of Nautilus Ecology. He is also a part time herpetology PhD candidate registered at Open University in the United Kingdom.

RYAN WALKER The TSA helped sponsor Ryan’s fieldwork in 2009 A Northern Spider Tortoise, (Pyxis a. byrgooi). and is committed to helping complete the three year survey. GPS data collected during this project attempting to increase its protected area Mikea Protected Areas. However, due to the is being compiled into a GIS mapping program by TSA and Fort Worth Zoo affiliate Brian Jones. coverage to three times its current total area, as now fragmented nature of the subspecies’ the government has realized that Madagascar range none of the remaining populations must protect its unique natural resources fall within the boundaries of these newly if it is to develop its fledgling tourism proposed protected areas. But, the results of industry. Currently P. a. brygooi’s historical this work have stimulated discussion with range failed to fall inside any formally World Wildlife Fund (WWF); the agency recognized protected areas. However, there charged with gazetting and implementing are two new protected areas proposed for the protected area expansion program. the region; Ranobe PK32 and Northern Currently, WWF are considering altering

10 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE RYAN WALKER

Northern Spider Tortoise, (Pyxis a. byrgooi)

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 11 Recent TSA acquisition of Northern Spider tortoises (Pyxis a. brygooi)

Rick Hudson and Michael Ogle

n the captive management side of Othings, the TSA is pleased to announce the recent acquisition of 9.12 Northern spider tortoises (Pyxis a. brygooi) from a private breeder. This nearly doubled the Population Management Plan (PMP) managed population of brygooi in the U.S. and the specimens were placed with three institutions (Cleveland Metroparks, San Diego and Knoxville Zoos) and one private facility (Matt Frankel), each of which helped PHIL COLCLOUGH to cover the cost of acquisition. Recent One of 21 Northern spider tortoises, Pyxis a. brygooi, acquired by the TSA from a private breeder, nearly field surveys by Ryan Walker (see related doubling the PMP managed population of this critically endangered tortoise. article) have documented dramatic declines of brygooi across their range, primarily due Madagascar’s dwarf tortoises. These new facilities working on breeding this subspecies, to agricultural conversion and hunting for specimens will go to further strengthen our namely Dan Pearson, Behler Chelonian food, so significant that this subspecies is managed population and will contribute to Center, James Badman, and the St. Louis now considered the most endangered of the fine work already being done at our other Zoo. 

TSA members raise funds for Madagascar program

Rick Hudson

SA members are beginning to come up Twith innovative ways to generate funds for TSA’s Madagascar program.

Lisa Weiss is offering some of her 2009-hatched Furrowed wood turtles (Rhinoclemmys areolata) for sale to TSA members, with the majority of proceeds going to support TSA's Madagascar tortoise program. The turtles are priced at $250.00 each, $150.00 of which will be donated to the TSA. 100% of sales of these carved onyx tortoise sculptures support the TSA Madagascar Program. Knoxville Zoo is offering captive hatched Spider tortoises (Pyxis a. arachnoids) to TSA Roy Young of Nature’s Own continues sculptures sold well at the TSA conference in members in exchange for a $200 donation to support our efforts in Madagascar by 2008 so look for them again in St. Louis. to the TSA. The tortoises are on long- providing free shipments of carved onyx These are also available to zoo gift shops, term loan from the TSA and are considered tortoises of various sizes. TSA member with free shipping, providing they track the surplus to the Population Management Plan Sheena Koeth (see member profile) has been sales and return a designated portion to the (PMP) for this species. To date, this program exceptionally generous with her time and TSA. Special thanks to the Fort Worth Zoo has generated $4,000 for Spider tortoise has sold thousands of dollars worth of these for being the first institution to partner with conservation in Madagascar. (see p.5) tortoises at special events and fundraisers. The the TSA in this capacity.

12 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE Meet the Board

TSA Foundation Board Holds Inaugural Meeting

Scott Davis

The first meeting of the expanded TSA Foundation Board of Directors was hosted by Eric Goode and Maurice Rodrigues at the Maritime Hotel in New York on March 6, 2009. This meeting marked the official transition of the TSA from a task force of the IUCN Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group into an independent conservation NGO. The new Board will oversee major aspects of fund-raising and administration and will be responsible for strategic planning and decision making that will insure the long-term viability and future of the TSA. The new Board shares the vision of the TSA as the “Go To” organization for turtle and tortoise conservation. We expect exciting developments, including major new fundraising, a new look for the TSA website, field blogs from some of our leading range country programs, and a major marketing initiative and membership drive. Look for our Board members at the Annual Meeting in St. Louis.

Rick Hudson, President Rick Hudson was a Curator in the Fort Worth Zoo’s renown Department of Herpetology for twenty years, before moving to the zoo’s Conservation & Science Department in 2000 as Conservation Biologist. Rick has organized numerous conservation workshops, including the IUCN Asian Turtle Workshop - Developing Conservation Strategies Through Captive Management - that led to the formation of the TSA. Rick served as the co-chair of the TSA from 2001 to 2009 and under his leadership the TSA grew into an independent NGO that supports or manages turtle research and conservation programs in Madagascar, Brazil, Mexico and throughout Asia.

Dwight Lawson, Vice President Dwight Lawson is the Senior Vice President of Collections, Education and Conservation at Zoo Atlanta, overseeing the animal and plant collections as well as the zoo’s education, research and conservation programs. He is also an Adjunct Professor of Biology at Georgia State University where he regularly teaches. Dwight helped found the Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA) and has served as co-chair of the TSA, President of the TSA Foundation and chair of the TSA’s Animal Management Committee.

Chuck Landrey, Secretary and Marketing Committee Chair Chuck Landrey is founder of the Turtle Conservation Project and the New England Turtle Atlas. He runs the Thai Turtle Trust, a conservation initiative of the food brand “A Taste of Thai.” Chuck is past Chair of NE-PARC’s Box Turtle Working Group and organized the 2008 Diamondback Terrapin Conference on Cape Cod. He is currently filming a documentary about New England’s turtles.

Walter Sedgwick, Treasurer and Development Committee Chair Walter Sedgwick has served on the Boards of a diverse range of conservation NGO’s, including the National Audubon Society, The Nature Conservancy - Florida, Bat Conservation International, Island Conservation, the Pacific Forest Trust and the Wildlife Conservation Society. He helped to found the Turtle Conservation Fund in 2002 and has been a driving force behind the TSA's strategic fundraising efforts for many years.

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 13 Scott Davis, Executive Director Scott Davis was a Genetics professor at Texas A&M University for fourteen years and served two years as Chairman. As a professor, he studied the forces impacting genetic variation in wild and captive animal populations. In 2000, Scott left the University environment to found Biotech companies. At home, he focuses on the captive breeding of giant Asian softshell turtles in the genera Chitra and Pelochelys. In the fall of 2008, Scott assumed the position of Executive Director of the Turtle Survival Alliance.

Bill Holmstrom Bill Holmstrom served as the Department of Herpetology Collection manager at the Wildlife Conservation Society’s (WCS) Bronx Zoo until his retirement in 2009. He was Species Coordinator and Studbook Keeper for the AZA’s Radiated Tortoise Species Survival Plan (SSP) and Studbook Keeper and Co-coordinator for the Burmese Star Tortoise SSP. Bill has served as an instructor in a number of WCS and TSA sponsored workshops in SE Asia, and he maintains and breeds a group of pancake tortoises for TSA at his home.

John Iverson John B. Iverson is Professor of Biology and Director of the Joseph Moore Museum of Natural History at Earlham College in Richmond, Indiana. He is Deputy Chair of the IUCN/SSC Iguana Specialist Group, and on the Steering Committee of the IUCN/SSC Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group. He has been on the Scientific Advisory Committee of the Turtle Survival Alliance since its inception in 2001.

Pat Koval, Governance Committee Chair Pat Koval is a partner of Torys LLP, a business law firm based in Toronto, Ontario and New York, New York. She practices in the area of corporate and commercial law, with primary emphasis on corporate finance, securities regulation and mergers and acquisitions. Pat has had a long history of involvement with, and support for, Canadian charitable organizations focused on conservation. She has served as a Director of World Wildlife Fund (Canada) for nine years and is currently the Chairman of the Board of WWF.

Colin Poole Colin Poole is currently the Director of the Asia Program for the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) based out of the Bronx Zoo and works closely with the TSA on turtle conservation programs in Cambodia, Myanmar, China and Indonesia. He has worked in Southeast and East Asia since 1988 and founded WCS’s Cambodia Program where he spent seven years. He has published widely on conservation issues in Cambodia and also serves on the board of the Turtle Conservation Fund.

Hugh Quinn Hugh Quinn holds a PhD in Biology and has spent his career at the Fort Worth Zoo, the Oklahoma City Zoo, the Houston Zoo, Director at the Topeka Zoo, and finally as General Curator at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo (retired). He is Co-Chair of the Turtle Conservation Fund (TCF) and serves on the Steering Committee of the IUCN/SSC Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group (TFTSG).

14 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE Anders Rhodin Dr. Anders G.J. Rhodin, M.D., is Founder and Director of Chelonian Research Foundation. He is Chair of the IUCN/ SSC Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group and a member of the IUCN Marine Turtle Specialist Group. He is also Co-Chair of the Turtle Conservation Fund and Editor of Chelonian Conservation and Biology and Chelonian Research Monographs. He is an orthopedic surgeon and maintains an active private medical practice.

David Shapiro David Shapiro lives in Hong Kong and acts as director for It’s Academic international operations in Asia. The company manufactures school supplies which are sold throughout North America and Europe. David cares for a Leopard Tortoise named Finn. He is passionate about turtle conservation and the TSA, and has been a generous supporter over the years.

Frank Slavens Frank Slavens retired in 2001 as Curator of Reptiles from the Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle. The editions of his book, Reptiles and Amphibians in Captivity, were definitive inventories of the world's reptiles and amphibians in captive collections. In 1990, he started the Western Pond Turtle Headstart and Recovery program in cooperation with the Washington Deptment of Fish and Wildlife. After retirement, Frank and his wife Kate moved to their field site to continue their work with pond turtles.

Bill Zeigler F. William (Bill) Zeigler is President of Zeigler & Zeigler, Inc. a consulting firm for zoos, aquariums, and wildlife organizations. He served as General Curator for the Miami Metrozoo and as Vice President of Animal Science for Ogden Entertainment. Bill still lecturers for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) on exhibit design and husbandry. He is a member of IUCN/SSC Crocodilian Specialist Group, Development Coordinator for the Gharial Conservation Alliance and a member of the Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group.

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 15 Meet the Program Coordinator

Program Coordinator: Heather Lowe

Rick Hudson

eather Lowe joined the TSA this April While working at the Zoo, Heather and other general feeling was that the organization Hin a full-time capacity as Program members of her department volunteered for had reached the capacity of what could be Coordinator. Heather began her career at Meals on Wheels. That experience inspired done relying on only volunteer support and the Fort Worth Zoo in 1995 and worked her to return to school and she obtained her that it was critical to hire someone to help in both Operations and Animal Nutrition Master’s degree in Social Work in August of the organization continue to grow. Heather before moving to the Conservation Science 2007. The following October, she was offered was offered the position, based on her department in 1999. During that time, she a job with Meals on Wheels and left the Zoo, previous work for the group, and accepted earned her B.S. in Biology (2000) and was but continued to work for the TSA on a immediately. She is extremely excited to able to work on a wide variety of projects at volunteer basis. During her time at Meals on see what she can do for the TSA, given the the Zoo that ranged from research, writing Wheels, Heather spearheaded a grant-funded opportunity to dedicate herself to the cause and messaging for the eight-acre Texas Wild! project in several areas of Tarrant County, full-time. Her time in social work gave her exhibit to a grant-funded urban forestry working with local officials and community valuable experience in grants administration project. At the same time, she also began to stakeholders to develop long-term plans to and non-profit management that will bolster support the Turtle Survival Alliance with a reduce senior isolation in the community. her abilities as she embarks in this new role. variety of administrative tasks. This support grew into the management of the TSA’s In February 2009, the TSA’s new Board of membership program and a position on the Directors met and approved the creation of group’s Steering Committee. the organization’s first funded position. The

Heather Lowe

16 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE Membership

Members Make A Difference

Heather Lowe

ur members are the driving force behind (passions) pointed me toward the career that Othe success of the TSA and we’d like to Member Spotlight: Lonnie McCaskill I have today. Beyond that, a wife that has take this opportunity to say “thanks.” Funds supported me through both the tough times Hometown: Dallas, Texas generated by membership dues help to offset and the good times has made life great! the operating costs of the TSA and also allow Occupation: Zoological Manager, access to non-restricted funds that can be Disney’s Animal Kingdom Do you have any pets? We have two Jack used in the event of unexpected costs related Russell terrorists, I mean terriers. I think! to conservation projects around the world. hat are some of your hobbies? I In essence, your support is essential to our Wwould say “passions” would be the Do you keep turtles at your home? I have success. This year, the membership has grown word to best describe my hobbies. My wife, groups of leopard, star, red foot, pancake considerably both in numbers and diversity. Kathi, would probably call them obsessions! and elongated tortoises and one rescued We currently have members representing 25 I have a passion for collecting exotic plants, Manouria emys emys that is more of a pet and countries from around the globe (up from 12 reptiles, fishing, folk art, cooking and friend than anything else. last year!). However, we’d like for that growth traveling around the world to see animals, What first sparked your interest in turtles to continue. Please consider forwarding your foreign cultures and environments. I really and tortoises? I used to do a lot of night next e-newsletter to your family and friends love to learn about different cultures and ways exploring in the creeks where I grew up and along with a personal note encouraging of life. I feel it gives you a good perspective of thought it was fascinating to watch turtles at them to join and help the TSA move into where we all fit in this world together. I also night. If the water was clear and you didn’t 2010 bigger and better than ever. The TSA is love to collect fossils and artifacts. truly a grassroots organization and our most create much disturbance they totally either powerful recruitment tool is word of mouth Tell us about your family. My mom, dad and ignored or did not notice the light on them. I from members just like you. brothers all live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area would watch common snapping and softshell of north Texas. My wife and I left for Florida turtles exhibit all kinds of behavior that I As an organization, we believe that anyone can in 1994 and I was part of the opening team never saw during the day when they are so contribute to turtle conservation, regardless for Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The support shy. At night I could be standing in the water of background or experience. Each and that my parents and grandparents gave me right next to them and they did not seem to every member has the ability to become an growing up with all of my collecting habits notice. advocate for turtle conservation in their local community, increasing the TSA’s presence around the world. In this issue, we are highlighting two truly exceptional members – Lonnie McCaskill and Sheena Koeth. Lonnie has been involved with the TSA since its inception in 2001 and is instrumental in the success of the annual conference each year – shake his hand and say “thank you” if you see him in St. Louis! Sheena shows her support for the TSA by working tirelessly to raise funds for conservation programs in a variety of ways. Her fundraising efforts include making and selling her own t-shirts, holding raffles at events and selling TSA merchandise. We hope that you enjoy getting to know them and encourage you to respond to future appeals to introduce yourself through our Member Spotlight feature in the e-newsletter. We want to meet you!

Lonnie McCaskill works year-round to make the TSA’s annual conference a success and also regularly offers his expertise to TSA range country programs.

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 17 What do you enjoy about being a member What do you enjoy about being a member of the TSA? I enjoy the opportunity to of the TSA? TSA is doing great work globally. interact with people that really care about Representing the group and raising funds turtles and tortoises - not just how to care for worldwide turtle conservation is its own for them, but their conservation in the wild reward. In the future, I also plan to house as well. and breed endangered turtles for TSA. Membership FAQs How did you first learn about the TSA? I How would you describe your personal was at the founding meeting in Fort Worth conservation philosophy? We should all in 2001. take responsibility for conservation, and take What is my username and password? initiative as individuals to do as much as we Your username can be found on your How would you describe your personal can. Since everyone can’t do everything, I’m a membership card. However, your conservation philosophy? Every living thing big believer in picking a few causes to which password is not included on your card, has the right to survive and we as humans you can dedicate yourself. Mine are turtles in the interest of protecting your privacy. have the responsibility to ensure that right. and crocodiles. You can visit the website and click on the “Forgot Password” link, and enter Tell us about your job. I’m a veterinary your Member ID (also printed on your membership card) to have your password Member Spotlight: Sheena Koeth technician at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, where I’ve been for nine years. While reptiles sent to you via e-mail at any time. Or, Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio are my favorite, I provide medical care for all just contact Heather Lowe at 817/759- of the zoo’s animals. The zoo supports my 7262 or [email protected] and Occupation: Registered Veterinary travel for conservation initiatives, as well as she can send you that information. Technician continuing education, which is great. I was recently able to help with some of TSA’s How do I update my contact info? hat are some of your hobbies? I love headstart animals from the Chambal River While exploring the TSA website, you Wto travel, read, drink wine, care for and in India while there for gharial conservation. are encouraged to log in and visit your train a variety of animals, and raise money for account page. On this page, you can reptile conservation. update your contact information to ensure that you continue to receive both Tell us about your family. I’m married to Heather Lowe electronic and mailed correspondence. A TSA member Brad Poynter; we live in a small Program Coordinator current mailing address is very important, since it helps reduce postage costs and house with four dogs, five cats, and an ever- Turtle Survival Alliance resources when publications like this one changing number of displaced reptiles in 817/759-7262 need of care. are sent out as a membership benefit. [email protected] What is your most memorable encounter How do I know when my membership with a turtle in the wild? Definitely getting expires? Your membership expiration up close to a wild Galapagos tortoise on my date can be found on your membership honeymoon. card or by logging into your member page on the TSA website.

Can I renew for more than one year at a time? Memberships can be renewed for up to three years at a time. Individual membership dues are $50 per year. Organizational and Institutional membership dues are $150 per year.

How can I keep current on TSA conservation news and activities? Our e-newsletter is sent out bi-weekly and is the best way for you to stay up-to-date on all TSA news and announcements. Members receive these e-mails automatically, as a membership benefit. If you are not currently receiving the e-newsletter, contact Heather Lowe to make sure that we have your current e-mail address in our database. To make sure that messages from the TSA do not get diverted to your junk mail or spam folder, please add HLowe@ turtlesurvival.org to your address book Sheena Koeth (shown here holding a Batagur from TSA India’s headstart program) promotes the TSA in a or safe list. variety of venues throughout the year, raising funds for conservation programs.

18 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE Animal Management

TSA Animal Management: New Vision and New Process

Dwight Lawson

id you know that the TSA currently As we update the database, we will begin Downs and manages more than 2000 to focus management activities on priority turtles and tortoises representing more than taxa by outlining basic plans and moving 50 species? In 2009, the Animal Management animals to form logical breeding groups. We Committee has been working behind the have already found with the initial update scenes to refine processes and develop a new responses that there are many single animals approach to managing this living collection. and groups that are heavily biased to one sex A major challenge in this effort is that these or the other. We will need every individual's animals are spread throughout the US in a and institution's help in reenergizing TSA's variety of situations. Currently, these 2000+ animal management efforts. animals reside with 93 private individuals, 33 zoos and aquariums, and 5 educational By reviewing TSA holdings, we have also institutions (i.e., universities and veterinary found a number of gaps in the collection schools). Our ability to effectively manage that need to be filled. Certain groups, such a large, diverse and dispersed collection can as the species of Cuora, are widely recognized only be as good as the quality of information as needing captive breeding efforts to about that collection. And, in 2009, we ensure their survival. However, this group have spent most of our time working to in particular is poorly represented in the update the TSA's database of turtle and TSA's holdings. We will be looking to obtain tortoise holdings. We need to know who has specimens of important but missing taxa what, how it's doing and any developments and placing these animals with dedicated (i.e., breeding, determination of sex, etc.). TSA members who have the experience and

TSA's new records manager, Debbie Forde, history with the organization to contribute This Cuora mccordi is one of several destined to has been sending out requests for updates to these programs. As an example, the TSA be traded with TSA Europe, which is an excellent to everyone holding TSA animals. If you obtained a group of six McCord's Box Turtles example of the international cooperation needed to save this critically endangered species haven't heard from her yet, you will, and, if (C. mccordi) that are placed with various you haven't responded, please do! We need members. These animals turned out to all this basic information to be able to focus on be female, so we are working with European management is needed, potential volunteer the important tasks ahead as we work toward members to swap specimens to form breeding holders are screened and vetted by the the long-term goal of developing assurance groups here and there. Animal Management Committee. Watch the colonies of as many tortoises and freshwater e-newsletter carefully for specimens that are turtles as possible. To help us focus on priority taxa, we may available, and please don't hesitate to contact also divest some TSA holdings that have little Debbie or myself with updates or questions. TSA holdings include a few hundred conservation potential. Maintaining records We need everyone's help in making TSA's specimens of endangered and critically and requesting updates takes considerable living collection an integral part of our endangered species, but also a substantial time and effort - rare resources in this overall conservation efforts. number of species of lesser concern. The volunteer organization that could be better  opportunity for TSA’s animal collection spent on species of greatest concern. in 2010 and beyond is to maximize both the conservation potential of the overall We have also been working to implement a collection and use the collection when revised and simplified animal acquisition and Dwight Lawson, Ph.D. ethically appropriate to generate revenue placement process. Unless there is a point Senior Vice President to support field and captive conservation person and plan in place for a particular Collections, Education and efforts. We have already seen TSA members species, all confiscations or surplus offspring Conservation be creative in turning their turtle offspring are advertised to the entire TSA membership Zoo Atlanta into support for TSA field programs, and we via the e-newsletter. Animals are either 404.624.5619 believe the TSA collection can operate in the placed on a first-come, first-served basis with [email protected] same way. members, or, in the case where long-term

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 19 Significant Breedings − The Next Generation

TThe Behler Chelonian Center announces the first captive breeding of the Assam Roofed Turtle (Pangshura sylhetensis). Courtship and mating were observed September-October 2008 and six eggs were dropped into the water on 16-17 March 2009. The eggs were split into three boxes and bedded in chunky vermiculite. In the wild, P. sylhetensis nests on sand banks in the cooler season with nighttime temperatures close to 0˚C that heat up greatly during the day. In previous years, eggs were placed directly into an incubator and did not develop. In 2009, the eggs were exposed to different ranges of day/ night temperature fluctuation. One box (hit by sun in the greenhouse) reached temperatures above 40˚C, which caused shrinking of the eggs. However, two of the three eggs recovered in the incubator. The first hatchling from these eggs emerged on 28 May (73 days), the second on 2 June (78 days). Another egg (not exposed to high temperatures early on) began developing after late exposure to temperatures close to 40 ˚C, but died during incubation. . PETER PRASCHAG

The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo produced one Northern Spider Tortoise (Pyxis arachnoides brygooi) on 22 March 2009, the third in two years. All were hatched in March from eggs laid in October. The first two eggs were incubated at 28˚C for 35 days, followed by 35 days of diapause at 20˚C, followed by four months of incubation at 28˚C. They were set up in wax worm containers with 1:1 vermiculite to water by weight, and misted once a week. An egg monitor (“Buddy” by Avitronics) was used to monitor development. Less than a week before hatching, the egg monitor registers movement and the hatchling will emerge within a few days. The last egg that hatched was set up as the others but incubated at 30˚C for 35 days, followed by a 70 day diapause at 20˚C, then back to incubation at 3˚C. Interestingly, the egg hatched after three months (a shorter incubation period most likely to higher temperatures) but having a two month diapause caused the egg to hatch in roughly the same time frame. BRAD POYNTER

The Palm Beach Zoo produced four Yellow-Spotted River Turtles (Podocnemis unifilis) hatchlings in 2009. On 15 November 2008, a single clutch of 23 eggs was laid. The eggs were incubated at a temperature of 29°C and hatchlings emerged after 74 days. Hatchling are being raised on a diet of Mazuri aquatic turtle pellets, crickets, mealworms, waxworms, earthworms, as well as fruit, kale, dandelion and collard. MARK HALVORSEN

20 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE Kurt Edwards reports one Black Spiny-necked Swamp Turtle (Acanthochelys spixii) hatched at his facility on 10 June 2008. The total incubation/diapause process took just over eleven months. The egg reached 3 - 4˚C during diapause and was held at roughly 28˚C during incubation. KURT EDWARDS

A TSA Arakan Forest Turtle (Heosemys depressa) maintained by Dwight Lawson produced her first viable clutch of five eggs in 2009. The eggs began hatching just as this newsletter went to press and four of five eggs had hatched by deadline. The eggs were incubated at 29˚C and began pipping at 141 days. DWIGHT LAWSON

2009 saw additional successes with the once enigmatic Impressed Tortoise (Manouria impressa). New founder animals began producing offspring at the Behler Chelonian Center and proven pairs continued to produce eggs in Atlanta where forty eggs from two clutches were laid in June. A pair maintained by Dwight Lawson has produced hatchlings for the last three years. Note the onset of adult coloration between one and two years of age. A TSD pattern is beginning to emerge from incubation studies over the past two years; females are produced at 29˚C, whereas 27˚C results in mostly males. DWIGHT LAWSON

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 21 Animal Management

Golden Coin box turtle genetics and implications for captive management in the U.S.

Peter Praschag

he Asian box turtles (genus Cuora), Working Group, 2007). The systematics Blanck et al. (2006) the authors explain this Tincluding not less than nine critically of the Asian box turtles of the genus Cuora variation by mt- introgression coupled with endangered taxa, are the illustrative model and most of all the Golden Coin Box Turtle hybridization and/or clinal variation and not of a species complex of high conservation (Cuora trifasciata sensu lato) has been by the presence of a previously unrecognized concern. The ongoing over-exploitation for extensively studied in recent years. However, species. Haplotypes are shared between C. the Asian turtle trade is continuing to cause the taxonomy of these turtles is very complex trifasciata, C. aurocapitata, C. pani, C. mccordi a crushing decline of wild populations. and still under debate. Blanck et al. (2006) and C. zhoui as well. Thus, by looking only Several species have been decimated to such found the somehow lost type specimen into the mt-DNA, a C. trifasciata identified an extent that it is almost impossible to get of C. trifasciata (Bell, 1825) and based on only by morphology can appear as one of enough specimens with known locality data morphology and mitochondrial (mt-) DNA the other species in the cladogram. Since for population genetic and phylogeographic split the species into three different taxa, the studies based on morphology and mt- analyses. Nevertheless, a stable and sound describing a new species C. cyclornata with DNA apparently cannot explain the complex taxonomy, especially for such rare turtles, the two subspecies C. c. cyclornata and C. c. situation, the ongoing studies focus on is absolutely essential, as species-level meieri. Genetic variation within C. trifasciata microsatellites and different nuclear genes. taxonomy is key to understanding and is confirmed by Spinks & Shaffer (2007) protecting biodiversity (Turtle Taxonomy and Spinks et al. (2009), but in contrast to It is important that the genetics of the captive PETER PRASCHAG / BCC

Female C. trifasciata sharing the ND1 mt-gene with C. zhoui (clade 2A).

22 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE populations of Golden Coin box turtles are sorted out now while the wild-caught founders are still alive and reproducing. Wild populations have been decimated and fragmented over the years, and most are considered functionally extinct. We must try to construct a meaningful cladogram for this species group so that genetically compatible pairs are formed, and captive hatched progeny bear as much semblance to ancestral wild populations as possible. The Europeans took the first serious step in this direction recently. Following the studies on specimens in EAZA institutions, the TSA coordinated with Dr. Phil Spinks at University of California at Davis to conduct a genetic screening of 118 specimens to identify the various genetic lineages present in the primary U.S. breeding collections. These included 50 turtles originating from the Tennessee Aquarium, Buffalo Zoo, Melbourne Zoo, Behler Chelonian Center and Dennis Uhrig, perhaps the most successful breeder of Golden Coin box turtles in the U.S. Looking into the ND1 mt-gene four different clades were detected. One clade represents what Blanck et al. described as C. cyclornata. As with the European specimens, most of the analyzed specimens belong to the clade with C. aurocapitata and C. pani introgression (clade 3A, in the European version clade A) and clade 1A, which is in Europe clade B. A few specimens with just one founder male share mt-genes with C. zhoui, but not a single living specimen of the 4A clade (according to Blanck et al. 2006 C. cyclornata) could be detected in AZA institutions. Unfortunately – like in European collections – different genetic clades were kept and bred together

producing a number of crossbreeds. Because PETER PRASCHAG / BCC of the unsatisfying informative value of Some the different mt- clades of C. trifasciata cannot be distinguished morphologically. The specimen on mt-DNA studies, it is advisable to wait for the left is from clade 2A and the one on the right is from clade 3A (with C. aurocapitata/pani introgression ). recommendations to relocate or exchange specimens to round up breeding groups until of Cuora cyclornata Blanck, McCord and Le, Tortoises. Chelonian Research Monographs, pp. 2006 (Testudines, Geoemydidae) and a plea for 73–84. the ongoing studies draw a clearer picture of taxonomic stability. Zootaxa 2018: 58–68. the complex situation. A revised studbook and breeding program should be accordingly Spinks, P.Q. and H. B. Shaffer (2007): initiated. Close international collaboration Conservation phylogenetics of the Asian box Peter Praschag, PhD with European partners has already gotten turtles (Geoemydidae, Cuora): mitochondrial Curator and Field Research Biologist underway by exchanging specimens beyond introgression, numts, and inferences from multiple Behler Chelonian Center borders. nuclear loci. Conservation Genetics 8:641-657. [email protected] Literature Turtle Taxonomy Working Group (2007): Turtle Blanck, T., McCord, W. P., and Le, M. (2006): Taxonomy: Methodology, Recommendations, and Guidlines. In: J. W. Bickham, J. F. Parham, On the variability of Cuora trifasciata (Bell, 1825). Peter is the Curator for the Behler Chelonian H. Philippen, A. G. J. Rhodin, H. B. Shaffer, P. Frankfurt am Main: Edition Chimaira. Center (BCC), one of TSA’s partner organizations Q. Spinks & P. P. van Dijk (Eds), Defining Turtle that we work closely with on a number of fronts. Spinks, Phillip Q., Robert C. Thomson, and Diversity: Proceedings of a Workshop on Genetics, See the related article to learn more about the H. Bradley Shaffer (2009): A reassessment Ethics, and Taxonomy of Freshwater Turtles and BCC.

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 23 Partner News

2008–2009 Behler Chelonian Center and Turtle Conservancy Report

Ross Kiester and Peter Praschag

n the 2008–2009 year, The Behler Chelonian ICenter (BCC) reached the culmination of its growth phase with the addition of over a dozen new taxa. These new species originated from Peter Praschag’s extensive chelonian collection in Austria, and were relocated to the BCC (primarily for the area’s ideal climate). The additions are mostly comprised of turtles, with an emphasis on south Asian species and softshell turtles including all four species of Pangshura, Morenia petersi, Chitra indica, Lissemys punctata andersonsi, Nilssonia formosa, and Erymnochelys madagascariensis. The center now manages a total of 37 taxa.

The BCC hit its stride in 2008–2009 producing 152 hatchlings. We were especially successful with three of our flagship species: 37 Astrochelys radiata, 46 Geochelone platynota, PETER PRASCHAG / BCC and 29 Manouria impressa. Ten other taxa Male Burmese peacock softshell turtle (Nilssonia formosa), a species endemic to Myanmar. produced 40 offspring. A highlight was the first captive breeding of the Assamese Roofed Turtle, Pangshura sylhetensis. As of June 1 we The transition to managing such large system that manages all of our data including had over 40 clutches incubating, including numbers of adults and hatchlings presents photographs of each animal. This system more than 100 eggs of Manouria emys phayrei, challenges to the most mundane part of our allows easy interaction from any computer so we expect the next year to be even more efforts: recordkeeping and identification. connected to the internet. For institutional productive. We have developed a web-based database compatibility we also keep our data in the AZA ARKS4 system. We are looking forward to the AZA ZIMS system that should combine the advantages of both of the systems. The large numbers of small hatchlings created the requirement for an effective individual marking system. After much investigation, we settled on the use of a system of small numbered and colored plastic dots originally developed for marking queen bees. We attach these using tissue cement to the areola of the last vertebral. To date our experience with this system has been very positive.

We are now facing the fortunate problem of determining what to do with these hatchlings. This problem has become our greatest challenge: how do we build conservation success on the foundation of captive breeding

PETER PRASCHAG / BCC success? There is no single answer because All 18 Manouria impressa hatchlings of one clutch emerged on the same day. each species and range country presents

24 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE Onsite research at the Center this year focused on climatology and aggressive behavior, both relevant to husbandry issues. We installed an automatic climate data center that will record complete climatic data for our Center which has a microclimate that is not always reflected by data stations even a short distance away. These data are parallel to data we are collecting in Madagascar, Argentina and Mexico and will help us understand the details of the climatic needs of our species. We have retrieved the first data loggers from Madagascar from both Ampijoroa and Baly Bay. These data will be use to design husbandry regimes for the management of ex situ populations of Ploughshare Tortoises. We have also begun a research project on vocalizations and aggressive behavior in tortoises including Manouria emys phayrei PETER PRASCHAG / BCC By changing the diet of South African tortoises to mainly succulents all three maintained species produced and M. impressa. We are using small video double clutches. Here, a Chersina angulata is hatching. cameras mounted on the shell to give us a “tortoise-eye view” of interactions with other unique difficulties and opportunities. We are South America, Asia and Europe. We have tortoises. As many tortoise keepers know, considering at least three broad approaches: begun a collaborative effort with the Taipei Zoo relentless, aggressive interactions between 1.) Release animals into their original range to on Geochelone platynota and plan to reciprocate males of some species of tortoise can present supplement native populations. This approach their visit this year. severe husbandry problems. We hope to learn is problematic for most of the species we manage because the causes of the species decline have not been eliminated. 2.) Release into ecological niches left vacant by the extinction of native, analog species. This newer approach (“putting the wrong turtle in the right place”) holds promise and we are investigating the possibility of putting animals onto islands in the Indian Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. 3.) Sale of animals to directly fund in situ conservation efforts. Following all CITES and AZA policies, we have begun this option for some species. All of the funds that we raise through such sales will be used directly for field conservation work (see our website chelonianconservation.org for details). Also, the availability of captive hatched animals may well reduce collecting pressure on wild populations.

The BCC continued to host international

visitors including scientists and conservationists PETER PRASCHAG / BCC from Australia, Myanmar, Madagascar, Africa, A captive reared Homopus areolatus female laid her first two eggs (two clutches).

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 25 Partner News

Continued: 2008–2009 Behler Chelonian Center and Turtle Conservancy Report PETER PRASCHAG / BCC Manouria emys phayrei female raking leaves to build her nest. The eggs are already laid at the base of the nest. more about such interactions to better help to produce and implement an Action Plan with scientists at the Instituto de Ecologia in us manage the contact between tortoises for this species. Political uncertainty in Jalapa, Veracruz to further our understanding using more complex arrays of pens. Madagascar has made the plight of this of the biological and human environment to most rare species even worse and poaching which this species is restricted. Along with managing assurance colonies, the appears to be on the increase. Working with center has taken steps to protect chelonians Durrell, the TSA and other organizations, we The Center began two new in situ efforts. in their natural habitats around the world. are taking a global view of its conservation We are funding a project to provide a nesting In 2008, the Turtle Conservancy (TC) was and are working to implement both in situ beach for a population of Nilssonia nigricans founded for this purpose. The TC will act and ex situ solutions. None of them will be in India that currently is unable to breed. as the umbrella organization for the BCC. easy. We are planning a trip to Madagascar We are also supporting surveys for Batagur The mission of the TC (alongside the BCC’s in September and October of this year, to baska and continue our commitment to the commitment to manage ex situ assurance begin implementing the critical initiatives conservation of the turtles of northeast India, colonies) will be to place more emphasis on laid out in the action plan. In Mexico, the one of the richest faunas in the world. in situ conservation initiatives. BCC/TC BCC/TC, in collaboration with the Andrew Every year, the BCC/TC produces an continued our in situ work on Astrochelys Sabin Family Foundation and Josiah and educational video, documenting our recent yniphora and Gopherus flavomarginatus. Efforts Valery Austin, are continuing our ongoing work on turtle and tortoise conservation to help A. yniphora centered on participating efforts to protect G. flavomarginatus in its and research around the world. Last year’s in the international effort, headed up by native range by helping to protect its habitat. video was dedicated to the endemic Malagasy the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, Myles Traphagen and Eric Goode visited turtle and tortoises, with an emphasis on

26 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE PETER PRASCHAG / BCC Hwa-Ching Lin, Chun-Fu Chen, Shih Chih-Chin and Yuling Lu from Taipei Zoo visiting the BCC for a collaboration in captive management of Geochelone platynota. PETER PRASCHAG / BCC Lukasz Pogorzelski, Collection Manager, marking M. impressa hatchlings with the bee marks.

the plight of the Ploughshare tortoise. This year’s video focuses on the Argentine tortoise, (Chelonoidis chilensis). In December of 2008, the BCC/TC organized a trip to Argentina to better understand the distribution, status, ecology, and biology of this little studied ALAN FARIAS tortoise. The BCC/TC will be screening this Miye McCullough, Peter Praschag, Eric Goode and Maurice Rodriguez in the 40-minute film at this year’s TSA conference Chaco of north Argentina, the habitat of the Chaco tortoise (Chelonoidis in St Louis. chilensis).

Ross Kiester, Chief Scientist [email protected] Peter Praschag, Curator and Field Research Biologist [email protected] John L. Behler Chelonian Center

The Behler Chelonian Center is a valued strategic partner of the TSA, collaborating for turtle

conservation in both India and Madagascar. MAURICE RODRIGUES Anders Rhodin, Russell Mittermeier, Peter Paul van Dijk and Richard Lewis (from left to right) in Baly Bay region with a A. yniphora.

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 27 TSA Europe

European Turtle Breeding Reports 2008/2009

Martina Raffel and Henk Zwartepoorte

n recent years, the interest among European progress has resulted in more extensive DNA his female at Rotterdam Zoo resulting in Izoos and privates regarding breeding Asian research on the genus Cuora, carried out by three fertile eggs laid in May 2009. Several turtles, with an emphasis on species of the the Universities of Potsdam and Hamburg recommendations were made by the ESF genus Cuora, has been increasing (see also in Germany. A proposal was sent to several studbook keeper resulting in the establishment the TSA Newsletter 2008). This is due to the grant-making organizations, amongst of genetically compatible breeding groups in conservation status of a number of species them the Turtle Conservation Fund (TCF) several EAZA institutions as well as private (classified into the highest IUCN threat who approved funding in the amount of breeders. In general, cooperation between categories) and thus also the difficulty or $6,500 for this project. Sample collection EAZA and ESF is improving. impossibility of obtaining specimens. is already ongoing and laboratory work to detect microsatellites has started. Based on Cuora mccordi progress Cuora trifasciata 2008/2009 results this genetics research, the first European specimen is planned to be sent to the C. For many years, four captive born females The DNA research started in 2007 and 2008 trifasciata studbook program in the USA (see had been held at Rotterdam Zoo. Through on several captive European Association of related article by Praschag, this edition). mediation by Elmar Meier, an exchange Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) Cuora trifasciata with a private German breeder was arranged specimens resulted in a revitalization of Some other results within this framework resulting in Rotterdam now finally having a the European Studbook Foundation (ESF) include the loan of a C. trifasciata male from male. Additionally, the proposed exchange studbook, managed by Torsten Blanck Rotterdam Zoo to Münster Zoo that resulted of captive born specimens between the USA and Elmar Meier. The number of EAZA in six offspring at both Münster (4) and and Europe is looking very positive and participants in this studbook increased and Rotterdam (2). Three hatchlings have also the permit process is underway. Hopefully in the meantime DNA sampling has been been reported by Cologne Zoo. In addition, these transfers will be carried out this year, carried out on 40 studbook specimens. This a private ESF studbook participant paired providing an excellent example of the type of HENK ZWARTEPOORTE HENK ZWARTEPOORTE The Cuora trifasciata group complex has been the The first Sulawesi forest turtle to hatch and survive in Europe was from the IZS Muenster Zoo. subject of intensive genetic analyses in Europe and subsequent repairing of breeding stock to create compatible pairs. Munster Zoo.

28 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE European Turtle Breeding Reports 2008/2009

international cooperation that is sometimes Number Scientific Name Remarks necessary to effectively manage critically offspring endangered species. - Chinemys nigricans Eggs not incubated* 8 Cuora aurocapitata

International Centre for Turtle 1 Cuora galbinifrons bourreti first-ever hatchling at IZS Conservation (IZS/ICCT) at Münster Zoo report 8 Cuora mccordi 4 Cuora trifasciata southern Chinese form As announced in the last TSA Annual 6 Cuora cyclornata ssp. Subpopulation of southern North Vietnam Newsletter, several fertile eggs of the various 1 Cuora cyclornata meieri North Vietnamese form of C. cyclornata

endangered Cuora species had been laid 1 Cuora flavomarginata evelynae through autumn 2008. Last year turned 1 Cuora zhoui out to be indeed the most successful in the short history of the IZS/ICCT breeding 1 Heosemys depressa died immediately after hatching station. Currently, there are 22 species being 1 Leucocephalon yuwonoi maintained here and all but two regularly 13 Mauremys annamensis Only part of eggs incubated*

produce eggs. In 2008, offspring were 3 ”Mauremys pritchardi” Hybrid form (removed from project 2008) produced by 12 species (see table). 1 “Mauremy iversoni” Hybrid form (removed from project 2008) Remarkable is the first breeding success Breeding success at the IZS Münster in 2008 * due to lack of interest in Meier’s three-striped box turtle (Cuora cyclornata meieri) and the first hatchlings of the subpopulation from the southern part optimized to result in ultimate breeding of North Vietnam (Cuora cyclornata ssp.). success. Especially significant is the first surviving hatchling of a Sulawesi forest turtle (Leucocephalon yuwonoi), the first-ever successful rearing in Europe. Hatchlings from the past two years died after three months and one week, respectively, due to feeding problems. The 2008 hatchling, Dr. Martina Raffel however, proved to be less delicate and Kuratorin für in situ Artenschutz feeds well upon a broad dietary spectrum, [email protected] gaining weight continuously. Allwetterzoo Münster, Westfälischer Zoologischer Garten Münster GmbH Altogether, 49 turtles hatched at the IZS in Sentruper Str. 315, D-48161 Münster 2008, 30 of those belonging to the genus Cuora. Eggs of Chinemys nigricans had not Henk Zwartepoorte, Chair TSA been incubated due to lack of interest in Europe, Chair European Studbook this species by other institutions, so that Foundation, Assistant Curator Reptiles the placement of the eventual hatchlings and Amphibians, Rotterdam Zoo, was not guaranteed. Also, only a portion Rotterdam, The Netherlands. of the eggs of the Vietnam pond turtles (Mauremys annamensis) were incubated. The Arakan forest turtle (Heosemys Captive management of the genus Cuora and the IZS/ICCT at Muenster Zoo are two of the HENK ZWARTEPOORTE depressa) still proves to be difficult. Despite premier programs of TSA Europe and provide Kwangtung River turtles breed readily in captivity the hatching of one single offspring, the but institutions such as the IZS Muenster Zoo have excellent examples of the strength of cooperation shut down reproduction due to problems placing immediate death of the young shows that and collaboration for species’ survival. offspring. nutrition of the females still needs to be

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 29 TSA Europe

Breeding Research project EHAP: Exchanging Experiences on Keeping and Breeding the Madagascar flat-tailed tortoise (Pyxis planicauda) Viktor Mislin and Gabriela Eberling

he goal of Project EHAP is to conduct Tresearch on optimal breeding and husbandry conditions as a contribution to the conservation of the critically endangered Madagascar flat-tailed tortoise (Pyxis planicauda). Husbandry of this species is not well documented or understood, as until recently, this species has rarely been kept outside of Madagascar. This project seeks to develop and document techniques which can be used to successfully keep and breed this species.

It was the discovery of a hatchling in the adult enclosure in 2003 that provided the inspiration for more intensive work with this VIKTOR MISLIN species. The hatchling had been produced from an egg laid in September 2002 and hatched during the summer of 2003. It turned out that the biggest problem with successfully hatching P. planicauda previously here, and at other institutions, had to do with the temperatures used during incubation. Between 2000 and 2003, all of the eggs produced died at various stages during the incubation process. It was discovered that by using a one-month cool down period (13°-15°C), after the first month of incubation, the hatch rate could be significantly increased. Temperatures were increased again at the beginning of month three. VIKTOR MISLIN Indoor set up showing metal halide lights and ultrasound misting system at work. In 2006, after producing six hatchlings, it was decided to start intensifying the locations in Europe where they would be kept the warmer seasons. These animals are to be breeding project with P. planicauda. After to rear to adulthood. The keepers at each held and maintained at their current facilities being delayed for almost a year by permitting location are asked to keep and report records until 2013. The following year tortoises will challenges, the researchers partnered with on growth and photograph the animals on a be moved around for breeding purposes. the Zoological Institute of Basel University regular basis. Although there has not been (Professor Dr. Dieter Ebert), an official any mortality with the offspring sent out, Terrarium selection for P. planicauda is based project was initiated and a cooperation in some cases the hatchlings have required on the “Minimum requirements for keeping contract was developed. an adjustment period of up to a year before reptiles”, dated January 10, 1997. Terrarium completely settling in and growing at the sizes are chosen as follows: length equals four In March 2008, six juveniles were exported same rate as before the move. Weight increase times carapace length and width equals half from Basel to Germany; a process which either stopped completely within this period of terrarium length. Carapace length is based was complicated by CITES and border or was just marginal. The hatchlings are kept on the largest tortoise kept in the cage. The regulations. That same year, 17 of the 22 in protected outdoor enclosures in order to average enclosure size is for two tortoises. To hatchlings were transferred to six different supply them with sufficient UV light during add either a third or fourth tortoise in the

30 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE VIKTOR MISLIN The hatchlings are kept in protected outdoor enclosures in order to supply them with sufficient UV light during the warmer seasons.

same terrarium, 10 % ground surface must be added to these measurements. 20% ground surface must be added for a fifth tortoise. Beginning in March 2009, metal halide spots and Reptistar FL UV A+B Sylvania tubes were used as the main lighting source while the animals are indoors. In April, these spot lights were swapped for metal halide Bright Sun UV Desert spots, which were sponsored by the Lucky Reptile Company. In order to increase the humidity, the researchers developed a special ultrasound misting

system directly connected to the central VIKTOR MISLIN distilled water supply system. Juvenile Pyxis planicauda, 2003

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 31 TSA Europe

Continued: Breeding Research project EHAP: Exchanging Experiences on Keeping and Breeding the Madagascar flat-tailed tortoise (Pyxis planicauda) VIKTOR MISLIN Several small incubators were constructed for egg incubation, each equipped with a thermostat capable of allowing a nighttime drop in temperature.

The adult breeding groups are composed as tortoises have periods of inactivity, just as Several small incubators were constructed follows: Group 1: 1.2 specimens, Group 2: they would in nature. This dormancy period for the incubation of the eggs produced, 1.2 specimens, Group 3: 1.1 specimens, and often lasts six months. During this period, each equipped with a thermostat capable of Group 4: 1.1 specimens. The first animal the air humidity and day length are reduced. allowing a nighttime drop in temperature. that was hatched at our facility turned When the animals become active again, the Vermiculite is used as the incubation out to be a male and is now paired with a day length is adjusted and the humidity substrate. Regarding incubation, a number subadult female that was legally imported is increased by adding the ultrasound of questions still remain to be answered into Switzerland. The tortoises are kept humidifier. The humidifier is switched on completely. One of the most frustrating at the same temperature and humidity seven times per day at 15-minute intervals challenges in the beginning of this levels as what they would experience in the during their active period. By doing so, an experiment was the length of time required wild, thanks to data available from western ideal micro-climate can be reached in which to see which incubation protocol was the Madagascar. Both juvenile and adult the tortoises thrive. most successful with this species. On

32 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE average, only ten eggs are produced each year and the incubation period ranges from 200 to 300 days. However, out of eleven tested incubation methods, a suitable method has been selected which is now used for the majority of the eggs

Project EHAP is supported by the scientific counsel of Henk Zwartepoorte (The Netherlands), Dipl.-Biol. Matthias Goetz (British Channel Islands) and Dr. Gerald Kuchling (Australia). Each was selected based on their herpetological experience, specifically with Pyxis reproduction or research. The members of the EHAP Project communicate on a regular basis in order to discuss problems and find solutions. It would be an advantage for the project if additional Pyxis planicauda keepers contacted the researchers in order to exchange experiences and skills.

Viktor Mislin [email protected] [email protected] Zoologisches Institut Vesalgasse 1

VIKTOR MISLIN Evolutionsbiologie CH-4051 Basel Copulation between Pyxis planicauda Universitat Basel, Switzerland Tel. +41 (0)61 267 34 66

Gabriela Eberling Projekt EHAP [email protected] Ahornstr. 23 D-16766 Kremmen Germany Tel. +49 (0)33055 73681

Note: EHAP is a German acronym for a phrase that translates to Exchanging Experiences on Keeping and Breeding the Madagascar flat-tailed tortoise (Pyxis planicauda)

This is one of the many captive breeding programs being carried out under the TSA Europe

VIKTOR MISLIN banner. Metal halide spotlights and the humidifier in the outdoor enclosure.

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 33 TSA Europe

Seized Turtles in the EU as a Source for Conservation

Alessandro Fornetti and Henk Zwarteporte

The European Union has traditionally been a very important market for the reptile trade. As the EU and National regulations became tighter (an on-going process), the illegal trade in turtles has grown, calling higher attention from several Law Enforcement Agencies throughout Europe. This has resulted in a number of seizures: although a complete picture is difficult to put together, information gathered by the writer point to an average of 2000-3000 specimens per year from 2005 to 2008. However, this is surely a broadly underestimated figure.

We can split the European illegal turtle trade in two main typologies: 1) high-volume smuggling of low-valued species (mainly Testudo ssp.), and 2) smaller batches of highly-prized tortoises and turtles. TRAFFIC CROATIA A package containing juvenile pancake tortoises A wildlife inspector in Croatia examines a being mailed from Tanzania to an address in shipment of European tortoises seized in Croatia. A typical 1) case involves the shipping of Belgium. 300-1200 tortoises (T. graeca sensu latu, T. hermanni, T. kleinmanni at times) from determine what to do following the seizure. So of officials towards private breeders; breeders circum-Mediterranean countries through the batches are treated singly, and their survival which have shown a remarkable success Italy, France or Spain, destined for fairs and future often becomes a matter of chance rate in any aspect of turtle keeping, often and little markets with a final selling price and luck. Apart from any moral or ethical exceeding the results achieved by institutions. ranging from 30 to 150€. A typical 2) case consideration, turtles which might prove involves very small batches (single animals at useful for reintroduction or ex-situ projects Another key factor is the apparent complete times) of high-profile species clearly destined are simply lost to “The Cause” for sheer lack lack of understanding that the time frame for the discerning collector. Offers known of communication and coordination between between the seizure and disposal is critical to the writer in recent times have included authorities and the conservation world. to the survival of the turtles: putting A. yniphora, S. leytensis and several Cuora together a mix of T. graeca, T. hermanni ssp. (including an alleged yunnanensis). So here we are, with a few hundred valuable and T. kleinmanni for months (or years!) These animals travel mainly from southeast tortoises potentially ready to be involved in some enclosure - while waiting for the Asia and enter the EU through Balkan in some project: but who can we put at the CITES papers allowing reallocation to be countries, being then moved by road to the receiving end? The first answer is quick and issued - invariably means all kinds of trouble, final destination. In between, we have all logical: those zoos and aquaria which have a and most likely death for a high percentage possible variations, such as 50-100 Astrochelys growing attitude towards conservation. The of the turtles involved. There’s a serious radiata, Stigmochelys pardalis, Kinyxis ssp., problem is that the total housing capability question we have to pose to the government Malacochersus tornieri etc. of these facilities will never come close to authorities: what did the legislator have in matching the number of animals offered. mind when they wrote the rules? Was the European Law Enforcement Agencies are Answer number two points to rescue centers: aim to create excessive paper work, overload now succeeding in stopping a significant part there are a few throughout Europe, but none police and custom officials with additional of this trade, but what happens to the seized – at present - seems to have the resources to work, or did he think of animal welfare and turtles? There’s no rule here, and the situation successfully deal with the yearly volume of wildlife conservation? There seems to be a is more complicated than it would seem at seizures. disconnect between the regulations and the first. The main problem is that Government Other problems include the traditional – actual needs of confiscated animals. Simply Officials apply laws which seldom – if ever – and not always fully justified – diffidence classifying them as “seized,” and leaving them

34 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE TRAFFIC CROATIA

A package containing juvenile pancake tortoises being mailed from Tanzania to an address in Belgium.

packed away as cargo is not practical, as the to privates. The benefits of an organized people who have to apply these laws on a studbook are well-known, and will not be daily basis know. discussed further here.Fourth, appeals should be sent to, and contacts made with all those Alessandro Fornetti So much for the problems; but what solutions European Institutions (EAZA or not), rescue IUCN/TFTSG – TSA Europe can we provide, or hope for? The first need is centers etc. that have a potential interest Via Flaminia 2016 – 00188 Roma, Italy to get a clearer picture of the seizures. Several in housing and caring for seized turtles. A [email protected] EU countries maintain a seizure database, database of potential receivers would greatly and/or take part in the EU-TWIX project: ease and quicken our job. Fifth, and perhaps Henk Zwartepoorte these sources should be coordinated as much the most difficult and important: every effort Chair TSA Europe as possible to allow info to become available should be made to organize and create a high- Chair European Studbook Foundation to conservationists in real time. Second, profile European Turtle Rescue Centre. The Assistant Curator Reptiles & Amphibians national authorities should recognize the need Centre would be located in the southern part Rotterdam Zoo, Rotterdam, to establish standardized procedures allowing of the continent, be within the distribution The Netherlands seized turtles to be quickly transferred to the area of several Testudo ssp., be near the receiving subjects. Papers can wait, turtles illegal trade hotspots, be recognized by the can’t. Third, conservation NGOs such as the Authorities and – especially – fully capable TSA and the European Studbook Foundation of dealing with a few thousand turtles a year, should act as an interface between the thus minimizing the risks of transit times and Alessandro is a TSA member that wrote last year on Egyptian tortoises confiscated in Italy and authorities and the receiving subjects; this is diseases due to neglect and poor husbandry. efforts to manage them under the EAZA program. especially needed whenever private breeders The practical implementation of these few He is a generous supporter of the TSA’s Rafetus are involved. The NGO not only creates the guidelines will remove many unneeded program in China. Henk chairs TSA Europe. contact and coordinates the operation but, paper folders from officials’ desks, will offer thanks to a very strict “code of conduct” conservationists much precious material and, imposed on members, prevents animals from finally, will give many smuggled turtles a going into improper hands once assigned better future than what they face today.

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 35 TSA Europe

The Egyptian tortoise (Testudo kleinmanni) - latest news on the 2005 confiscated shipment in Italy

Henk Zwartepoorte and Alessandro Fornetti

lessandro Fornetti reported extensively Aon the confiscated shipments of tortoises that originated in Libya in the 2008 TSA Newsletter. At that time, the legal situation regarding the shipments was uncertain and even after almost three years, almost no progress could be reported. However, the condition of the first 2005 confiscation is stable. The animals were housed at the Rome Zoo Bioparco, were properly cared for and from this group about 35 offspring can be reported. Eventually, during the second half of 2008 and the first half of 2009, a constructive communication arose between TSA Europe and the Italian CITES authorities.

During a WWF/TRAFFIC/EU-Twix workshop in Tarvisio/Italy in February 2009, Alessandro and Henk positively discussed this issue with CITES Italy representatives. After this meeting, the settlement of the CITES procedures was sped up. In the background, a vital role was also played by Bioparco curator Part of a large group of confiscated Egyptian tortoises placed at the Rome Bioparco in 2005. reptiles Stefano Micarelli. house large numbers of confiscated animals. In June 2009, CITES certificates were Nevertheless, the Bioparco Zoo managed suddenly issued for transfer of 150 tortoises to keep the majority of the originally to eight European Association of Zoos confiscated 280 tortoises in good condition and Aquaria (EAZA) institutions and two and with limited mortality. At the same privately-managed turtle centers. By the time, approximately 35 births were reported. end of June/early July these 150 tortoises Thanks to this situation, the communication will be transferred to the EAZA zoos of and cooperation between the parties involved London, Whipsnade, Chester, Bristol in (CITES Italy, Corpo Forestale, Bioparco and the UK, Prague Zoo in the Czech Republic, TSA Europe) finally improved and hopefully Terrariet Vissenbjerg in Denmark, Antwerp this will be a basis for future confiscations. Zoo in Belgium and Parken Zoo in Sweden. The private institutions are ARCO Spain in Henk Zwartepoorte Tabernas/Almeria in Spain and the Centre Chair TSA Europe pour Recuperation des Tortues in Switzerland. Chair European Studbook Foundation Thanks to this transfer, the breeding programs Assistant Curator Reptiles and in Europe will get a big boost. The Libyan Amphibians, Rotterdam Zoo, specimens will be separately managed within Rotterdam, The Netherlands the EAZA European Endangered species Programme (EEP). Alessandro Fornetti IUCN/TFTSG – TSA Europe Obviously, the long period of three and a Via Flaminia 2016 – 00188 Roma, Italy half years after confiscation is not an ideal [email protected] situation. Zoos are often not well equipped to The Egyptian tortoise (Testudo kleinmanni).

36 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 37 TSA Africa

Building a network to better understand the conservation status of the tortoises and freshwater turtles of a vast continent - TSA Africa is born Tomas Diagne

he African division of the Turtle Survival Africa is the second largest continent in throughout Ghana, Togo, and Benin, three TAlliance has been created and is based the world and accounts for 50 species of Western African countries. The results of in Senegal, a small country in West Africa. land tortoises and freshwater turtles in four this work made it possible to confirm the The chairman of the group is Tomas Diagne, families. presence of four species of land tortoises an agronomist who is also member of IUCN (Kinixys erosa, Kinixys belliana, Kinixys Turtle and Freshwater Tortoise Specialist To achieve its goals, TSA Africa hopes initially homeana and Geochelone sulcata) and seven Group (TFTSG). TSA Africa’s main to rely on the support of its members, partners species of freshwater turtles (Pelomedusa objective is the study and conservation of and other participants. The production subrufa, Pelusios castaneus, Pelusios adansonii, land tortoises and freshwater turtles and their and dissemination of identification and Pelusios niger, Cyclanorbis elegans, Cyclanorbis natural habitats in Africa. evaluation handbooks (in three languages: senegalensis and Trionyx tringuis). Rarest of French, English and Portuguese) for the all the species identified in this zone of West The office of TSA Africa is composed of two known African species has already begun. Africa is undoubtedly the Giant Nubian vice-presidents and 11 members, who are softshell turtle (Cyclanorbis elegans), which regional advisers or nationals of almost all In October and November 2008, the author requires urgent measures of conservation and the areas of this vast continent, which has a conducted an assessment of the presence restoration of its natural habitat. surface area of 30 million square kilometers. of the tortoises and freshwater turtles TOMAS DIAGNE Tomas Diagne (TSA Africa chair) with male (Geochelone sulcata) at the Senegalese Chelonian Breeding and Education Center.

38 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE It is also priority to carry out a comprehensive assessment which will allow a correct classification of the African species of TSA AFRICA STAFF: tortoises and freshwater turtles on the IUCN Red List. Chair, Tomas Diagne, Senegal [email protected] Vice-Chair, Patrick Baker, Ghana [email protected] The next meeting of TSA Africa members Vice-Chair, Josea D. Bodjirénou, Benin [email protected] will be organized soon, to be held in Nigeria with the collaboration of the IUCN/TFTSG group. At this meeting it is envisaged to ADVISORY COMMITTEE: develop an action plan to be carried out the over next several years and to identify the Dr. Tahar Slimani, Morocco [email protected] priority species and habitats to preserve. Phil Allman, Ghana [email protected] Dr Edem Eniang, Nigeria [email protected] Franck Makoundi, Republic of Congo [email protected] Tomas Diagne [email protected] Fidéle B. Egalenzibo, Democratic Republic of Congo [email protected] TSA Africa Reginald Mwaya, Tanzania [email protected] C/O Nature Tropicale Senegal Aurele Andre, Mauritius [email protected] Po Box: 657 Leon Rafindrazakoto, Madagascar Rufisque, Senegal, West Africa

ALL IMAGES ON THIS PAGE BY TOMAS DIAGNE

Staff members take measurements of a large adult Female mud terrapin (Pelusios adansonii adanson) male (Geochelona sulcata) at the Senegalese in captivity with young villagers near Guiers Lake, breeding facility. Senegal.

Kinixys homeana Geochelone sulcata laying eggs in the Thioump Patrick Baker (TSA Africa vice-chair) with a Nubian Reserve of northeast Senegal. softshell turtle (Cyclanorbis elegans) from Ghana.

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 39 PARTNER NEWS TURTLETSA SURVIVAL ALLIANCE

A Global Tour of Strategic Turtle Conservation Initiatives Supported by the Turtle Conservation Fund

Hugh R. Quinn and Anders G.J. Rhodin

he Turtle Conservation Fund (TCF) is Philippines nesting areas for this species and decimate Ta strategizing and funding consortium populations. Finding and appropriately of leading turtle conservation organizations TCF funds were awarded to Sabine Schoppe managing additional populations may be and individuals focused on ensuring the of the Katala Foundation Inc. to assess the the only hope of survival for this species in long-term survival of tortoises and freshwater conservation status and population size changes nature. The other Myanmar initiative, led turtles. Its impact is global, supporting those of the Critically Endangered Philippine forest by Khin Myo Myo, focuses on conducting front-line conservationists and organizations turtle (Siebenrockiella leytensis) on Palawan. a survey for the Endangered Arakan Forest whose efforts help implement TCF strategy. Information from this work will help assess turtle (Heosemys depressa) to update its current Current partnering organizations include population stability and provide key information population status and define any threats that Conservation International, International in designing recovery plans. may impact its survival. Union for Conservation of Nature / Species Survival Commission / Tortoise and Cambodia Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group, Turtle Survival Alliance, European Association of In Cambodia, TCF support was provided to Zoos and Aquaria Shellshock Campaign, Heng Sovannara of the Royal Government Chelonian Research Foundation, Chester of Cambodia Fisheries Administration and Zoo, Fort Worth Zoo, Asian Turtle Program, the WCS Cambodia Program for a project Wildlife Conservation Society, Behler involving Batagur baska, the Critically Chelonian Center / Turtle Conservancy, Endangered river terrapin, found here only in Chelonian Research Institute, World Wildlife the Sre Ambel and Kaong Rivers. Personnel Fund, Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, with this project have been monitoring and SOPTOM, Kadoorie Farm and Botanic protecting nesting beaches since 2002, but in Garden, Rotterdam Zoo, European Studbook 2008 were unable to locate any nests. This Foundation, and International Center for sobering turn of events prompted a request to Conservation of Turtles / Allwetter Zoo. TCF for funding to expand the search along these rivers as well as neighboring systems for nests.

KATALA FOUNDATION

Diverlie Acosta, turtle researcher for the Katala Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala Foundation, measures a juvenile Philippine forest turtle (Siebenrockiella leytensis). TCF provided support for two projects regarding the Critically Endangered Central Myanmar American river turtle (Dermatemys mawii). Since its formation in 2002, TCF has awarded One project, led by Gracia Syed of the $344,912 in grants to 77 conservation Funding for two initiatives was awarded to Universidad Autonoma de Mexico, seeks initiatives representing 35 nations. TCF the Wildlife Conservation Society’s (WCS) to identify any evolutionary lineages of has two funding cycles a year, with the most Myanmar Program turtle team of Win Ko this species in Mexico and Belize natural recent round of grant proposals evaluated in Ko, Khin Myo Myo, and Kaw Moe. One, populations in an effort to better design May 2009, awarding $52,458 to 12 worthy led by Win Ko Ko, focuses on surveying the captive breeding programs for animals projects. This latest round of grant recipients Sittoung River for the Endangered Burmese residing in existing captive facilities there. is representative of this organization’s global roofed turtle (Batagur trivittata) which has The other, with Rony Garcia, Roan McNab, perspective. Grants were given for work yet to be documented from this river. This and Gabriela Ponce of the WCS Guatemala with Endangered and Critically Endangered work is critical, as a hydro-electric dam has Program, and José Moreira of Asociación tortoise and freshwater turtle species in the already been completed in one of the two Balam, will define habitat use patterns of Philippines, Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam, rivers known to be currently inhabited by this this species in Guatemala to better define Mexico, Belize, Mexico, Colombia, Peru, and species, and another such dam is proposed the needs of wild populations in establishing Madagascar. for the other. Such impoundments destroy appropriate conservation management plans.

40 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE A Global Tour of Strategic Turtle Conservation Initiatives Supported by the Turtle Conservation Fund

Vietnam in Colombian and Peruvian indigenous Captive Management communities of the Santa Sofia Indigenous of Asian Box Turtles The Vietnamese pond turtle (Mauremys Reserve along the Amazon. This program annamensis) was for years thought extinct in will provide training for selected individuals The European Studbook Foundation designs the wild, but was recently rediscovered. Tim in these communities to protect turtle captive breeding programs for key species. McCormack, Doug Hendrie, Van Ha Hoang, nesting beaches, to build artificial beaches, Among these are Cuora trifasciata and and Chi Nhan Nguyen with the Asian Turtle and to translocate eggs from non-protected C. aurocapitata, which present confusing Program and the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, to protected areas. taxonomic issues. To assure that captive approached TCF for support to produce breeding programs produce “pure” lineages posters that will improve local knowledge of evolutionarily significant units, TCF about the significance of this species and its provided funds for molecular genetic analysis protection status. of captive populations to Jens Poschadel of the University of Hamburg, Germany, Torsten Blanck of the European Studbook Foundation, Martina Raffel and Elmar Meier of the Allwetter Zoo, Münster, Germany,

TIM MCCORMACK Martin Plath and Ralph Tiedemann of the University of Potsdam, Germany, and Torichiga: A turtle conservation-oriented stage play Henk Zwartepoorte of the Rotterdam Zoo, written and performed by the young people of the Nuevo Jardin indigenous community, Colombia Netherlands. and Peru. Summary To see a video of this highly acclaimed production, go to http://video.google.es/videoplay?doc id=6075199196786203964 These projects exemplify TCF’s holistic The Asian Turtle Program’s Mauremys annamensis Project (MAP) provides training to Q. Ngai Province approach to turtle conservation, which rangers about the plight of the Vietnamese pond Madagascar involves both ex situ and in situ approaches. turtle. Six pond turtles were confiscated in this province in January and now reside at the Asian Such efforts can only be possible through Turtle Program’s Turtle Conservation Center. Two programs were supported in Madagascar. partnerships with the various organizations, One, lead by Riana Rakotondrainy of the institutions and individuals who create and Colombia and Peru University of Antananarivo, Madagascar, conduct the above supported programs. Christina Castellano and J. Sean Doody of These partnerships form a coordinated, TCF supported two projects in South the University of Canberra, Australia, and effective, global network with a mission to America. One, lead by Adriana González- Herilala Randriamahazo of WCS Madagascar, conserve the world’s tortoises and freshwater Zárate, Olga Lucia Montenegro Diez, involves the demography, spatial attributes, turtles so that no species becomes extinct in and Olga Victoria Castaño-Mora of the and nesting ecology of the Critically our lifetime. Universidad Nacional de Colombia, involves Endangered Madagascar spider tortoise the impact of impoundments (dams) along (Pyxis arachnoides). The information gained rivers on the Endangered Colombian endemic from this study will be extremely valuable river turtle (Podocnemis lewyana). The in designing conservation strategies, both Hugh R. Quinn ([email protected]) outcome of this investigation will be critical, in nature and in captivity. TCF support of Anders G.J. Rhodin (RhodinCRF@aol. both locally and globally, as impoundments the other Madagascar project, led by Juliette com) are common around the world, and knowing Velosoa of Durrell Wildlife Conservation Turtle Conservation Fund Co-Chairs the influence of dams on large river turtles Trust, Madagascar, will enable the second www.turtleconservationfund.org is essential to their conservation. The other release of head-started, Critically Endangered South American initiative, lead by Fernando Madagascar side-necked turtles (Erymnochelys Arbeláez and Mario Vargas-Ramírez of madagascariensis) in Ankarafantsika National The TSA is one of the founding partners in the TCF Fundación BioDiversa Colombia, involves Park. and is joined by a host of other turtle conservation groups that comprise this organization. capacity building in four communities

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 41 North America

Ecology and Conservation of the Yellow-blotched Sawback, an Endemic River Turtle of the Pascagoula River System, Mississippi, USA

Will Selman

The conservation of quality habitat Mississippi. Following listing, populations but other threats include humans shooting worldwide is regarded as one of the most within the Lower Pascagoula River were turtles as ‘target practice,’ collisions with important aspects for species conservation. studied by Bob Jones (Mississippi Museum boats, collection for the pet trade, by-catch To this end, the Pascagoula River system of of Natural Science, MMNS) and by by fishermen, and the destruction of nests on southeastern Mississippi is considered one researchers out of Southeastern Louisiana, sandbars by recreational ATV riding. of the most pristine and the least impacted including the master’s thesis work of Brian major river system of the Lower 48 United Horne (TSA Advisory Committee). Studies Over the last 4 years, funding has been States. This river system is also the habitat found that turtles had complex seasonal awarded to conduct research on Graptemys for an endemic river turtle, the yellow- movements and restricted home ranges, as flavimaculata by the Mississippi Department blotched sawback (Graptemys flavimaculata). well as extremely low reproductive output of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP); Observed population declines in the 1980’s and high rates of nest predation/mortality. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS); led this species to be listed as Federally This species is threatened primarily by and the Chelonian Research Foundation’s Threatened in 1991 and Endangered in destruction/modification to riverine habitat, Linnaeus Fund. This funding has gone to MARY PEREZ An adult yellow-blotched sawback from the Pascagoula River system

42 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE research a variety of topics of this imperiled for this species. This year, sampling for the turtle: assessing populations post-Hurricane conservation genetics project (i.e. tissue Katrina, determining the impact of collection) was completed at multiple sites recreational boating on basking behavior and throughout the Pascagoula River system physiology, understanding the distribution/ of southeastern Mississippi, including abundance throughout the Pascagoula the Chickasawhay, Leaf, Pascagoula, and River system, and conducting research on Escatawpa rivers. The latter site contains the conservation genetics of this species. a geographically isolated population that Lower Pascagoula River populations were was first documented in the 1990’s by Pete found to be negatively impacted following Floyd and Tom Mann (MMNS). Along with Hurricane Katrina (declines of ~50%), but documenting the presence of this population, no impact was observed with upstream they reported unique pleural scute patterning populations. Distribution surveys indicated with individuals exhibiting a high level no range contraction and these surveys of rings which is unusual for this species. also documented populations in new river/ Genetic analysis is ongoing and should be creek systems. Results from other topics are completed by the end of 2009. Another goal forthcoming. of this project is to design public outreach materials outlining turtle conservation in WILL SELMAN A juvenile yellow-blotched sawback captured from Currently, the TSA and the Batchelor cooperation with MDWFP and USFWS. the Escatawpa River system (Jackson County, MS) Foundation have provided funding to These materials will provide general displays an abnormal pattern for this species. The patterning resembles the ringed-sawback of the continue the conservation genetics work information regarding turtle conservation, as Pearl River system (Mississippi and Louisiana, USA). and to establish a public outreach initiative well as outline proper recreational policies on protected nesting sandbars on Ward Bayou Wildlife Management Area (Jackson County, MS). The results from our work will add to the knowledge of this species, as well as provide informative material to educate the public. Hopefully this will ensure sound conservation decisions that will allow wild populations to persist within the Pascagoula River system.

Will Selman The University of Southern Mississippi Department of Biological Sciences [email protected]

The TSA provided partial support for this project with funds from the 2007 Batchelor Foundation grant. WILL SELMAN The Pascagoula River system is the least impacted major river system of the Lower 48 United States. Pictured here is the Leaf River (Covington County, MS) which is a tributary of the Pascagoula River system and habitat for the yellow-blotched sawback. TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 43 North America

Egg-harvesting, Hatching, and Release: A Population Augmentation Tool for Bog Turtles (Glyptemys muhlenbergii) in Tennessee

Bern Tryon

The bog turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii) was only turtles in their respective age classes in 2006, while in 2008, only three of eight first discovered in Tennessee in May, 1986 residing in these sites. At one site, the last laid eggs. From both sites, of eleven females from two wetland sites within one large two juveniles were found in 1995 and 1997, tracked in all three seasons, four produced valley in the northeastern tip of the state. and at the other site, a six year old male was clutches in each of the three years, two in two These captures documented the last known found in 1994. In addition, since 2001, years, one in one of the three seasons, and state to be included in the 12-state range predators eliminated 12 known turtle nests only one turtle did not lay eggs. In the three- of this species in the eastern United States, in these two sites. In some cases, shredded year period for 21 turtles, 47 female tracking and the fifth state within what has become eggshells indicated a mammalian predator, periods were documented, and of these, 30 known as the “Southern Population.” Work but many times the entire clutches simply clutches of eggs (64%) were produced. Of in these five states has determined that the disappeared from the nest cavity without these, 18 clutches (51 eggs) were harvested species is restricted to spring-fed wetlands, visual disturbance of the nesting area. The and incubated in a secured and remote called Mountain Bogs, in the Blue Ridge and predator in these cases is thought to be a situation within the study valley. upper Piedmont regions, and North Carolina snake, mole, or perhaps even a bird, but no serves as the stronghold for this species in traces of shell or egg-slime was apparent. The Prior to the 2006 egg-laying period, a simple the south. Bog turtles appear to be largely eggs were just gone. outdoor facility was constructed which would peripheral in the other states, and searching serve as a holding station for the incubation to date has not identified the occurrence of Based on this and the lack of apparent of the eggs. It became readily apparent that additional populations in Tennessee. The reproductive recruitment in the two historic despite best efforts, egg-laying was missed, discovery of bog turtles in Tennessee began turtle sites, the component of Egg-harvesting, nests could not be found, or if found the what has become known as The Tennessee Hatching, and Release was initiated in 2006. identity of the female could not be accurately Bog Turtle Program, an effort combining In addition to those turtles radio-tracked determined. Currently, this 2.4 x 6.0 m area 11 primary components involving both in season-long, all other females found in each contains two oval 220-liter Rubbermaid tubs situ and ex situ priorities and a partnership spring were tracked short-term to determine for female nesting, and once eggs are laid, between the Knoxville Zoological Gardens, reproductive status. Reproductive success the clutches are transferred to one of two The Nature Conservancy of Tennessee, varied in each study season, for example at 176-liter incubation tubs which correspond Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, and one site, ten of eleven females produced eggs to respective sites. Two additional tubs are numerous private landowners.

Radio-telemetry within the study valley documented the presence of two additional, satellite wetlands with turtles adjacent (by one-half mile each) to the historic sites in 2002 and 2003, and turtles are known to have moved between these sites. Based on mark-recapture studies, a total of 89 turtles are currently thought to comprise the marked turtle population of this valley meta-population. Population estimates from 1986 to1996 provided numbers of 46 and 39 respectively for the two historic sites, but turtles are known to have changed sites, and eight deaths of mostly telemetry turtles have been documented since 2001.

At the two historic sites, sub-adult turtles were found, albeit infrequently, but those found at

3-6 years of age were not only located with TESSA BICKHART some regularity, but they appeared to be the Bog turtle nesting tub in secured area.

44 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE available for nesting as needed. The tubs are 29 successfully hatched. For identification mostly sunken into the ground and overflow purposes, hatchlings were marked with a plumbing is installed. Substrate is comprised Queen Marker (bee dot) which was glued with of sphagnum peat in which a matrix of small epoxy to one costal scute. Release took place branches are placed which support plugs of within one week after hatching at respective natural nesting vegetation such as sphagnum sites. In July 2007, one 2006-hatched moss and small sedges. Each tub has a juvenile with the bee dot still firmly attached, domed lid of 3.2 cm mesh or chicken wire was found and represented the first new sub- and each is hinged and latched. The tubs adult found at either historic site in over 10 are surrounded by portable electric livestock years. fencing of six-inch metal mesh, and the entire area, since it also contains a garden, is backed Based on the degree of habitat destruction up with additional electric fencing. During documented over the past 30-plus years in the the hottest periods, fresh water is flushed south, plus the fact that minimally 85% of through each tub daily, and the substrate is all viable turtle habitat is found on privately- lightly misted in mornings when rainfall is owned land, meaningful conservation sparse. programs for bog turtles remain difficult and tenuous. Population augmentation Based on the prevailing weather in remains highly controversial but it seems that mountainous terrain, incubation periods some techniques such as the one described have been highly variable (67-105 days). herein may provide a safe, reliable, relatively Some degree of infertility has routinely been inexpensive, and potentially successful documented in the field throughout this conservation “tool” for the enhancement of study, and of the harvested eggs, 16 (32%) some declining turtle populations.

B.W. TRYON were infertile. Of the 35 fertile eggs, six had Incubating bog turtle eggs in secured tub. died at some point during incubation, and Bern W. Tryon Director of Animal Collections and Herpetology Knoxville Zoological Gardens P.O. Box 6040 Knoxville, TN 37914 [email protected]

The TSA provided support to the habitat enhancement component of the Tennessee Bog Turtle Project in 2009. Both Bern Tryon and the Knoxville Zoo are long time supporters of the TSA.

Committed to Zero Turtle Extinction B.W. TRYON Hatchling bog turtle with Queen Bee Marker ID tag. TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 45 North America

Alligator Snapper Translocation

Day Ligon and Daren Riedle

Alligator snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii) conservation has received substantial attention in Oklahoma for over a decade, starting with a state-wide survey of populations in the 1990s, the results of which triggered the inception of a captive propagation and reintroduction program by Tishomingo National Fish Hatchery and Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge. This program is ongoing, and release of headstarted turtles began in 2006. Reestablishing populations of turtles by releasing juveniles is, by necessity, a long-term endeavor, in large part because of the long time many species take to reach sexual maturity. Thus, alligator snapper conservation in Oklahoma got a major boost in 2007 by the translocation of more than 250 confiscated adult turtles to the southern part of the state. It is expected that supplementing reintroduction efforts with translocation of these reproductively mature animals will dramatically decrease the time required to generate a stable, self- KATHRYN KERKSIECK sufficient population.

As is the case for any major conservation effort, it was important that we measure the long-term results of the release in order to determine its impact. Therefore, monitoring of the repatriated turtles was initiated soon after their release. Radio transmitters, purchased with assistance from the Turtle Survival Alliance and Delta Foundation, were affixed to a subset of the turtles. Dan Moore, a graduate student in Dr. Stanley Fox’s lab at Oklahoma State University, used a combination of radio telemetry and trap- release techniques to keep tabs on the turtles’ seasonal movement and habitat association patterns as they acclimatized to the new environment. Additionally, springtime searches for evidence of nesting have been conducted in each of the last three years, and the results have been used as a proxy for condition of females in the population. DAY LIGON Initially, many of the transmitter-equipped Upper & Lower Images. Dan Moore conducted radio telemetry and trap-release research in 2008 and turtles moved significant distances from the 2009 following the release of adult snapping turtles in southern Oklahoma.

46 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE DAY LIGON This 42-kg male was one of more than 250 adult alligator snappers repatriated from an Arkansas turtle farm in 2007. point of release. However, within months nearly all of them had settled into home Day Ligon ranges similar in size to those seen in naturally Department of Biology, Missouri occurring populations elsewhere in the state. State University; Springfield, MO Evidence of nesting, in the form of predated 65897 417.836.5339 nests, was first observed in 2007 within two [email protected] months following the release. However, the Daren Riedle summer of 2007 saw some of the worst Department of Life, Earth, and flooding in the region in decades and, asa Environmental Sciences, West Texas result, we expect that high water claimed A&M University; Canyon, TX any nests that predators failed to uncover. 79016 Additional evidence of nesting was observed 806.676.6732 in 2008 and 2009, including an intact nest [email protected] that was subsequently covered with a wire cage to prevent predation. In coming years, we plan to use a combination of intensive on- the-ground searching and strategically placed motion-sensitive cameras to identify turtle nests and their potential predators to ensure The TSA provided partial support for the that some recruitment of hatchlings into the reintroduction of alligator snappers in Oklahoma with funds from the 2007 Batchelor Foundation population occurs. This, in combination with grant. DAN MOORE continued release of headstarted juveniles Researchers uncovered an intact alligator snapping turtle nest in 2008. The hatchlings subsequently elsewhere in the state, will guarantee alligator emerged in September of that year. snappers a bright future in Oklahoma.

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 47 North America

The Globalization of the Turtle Trade

Heather Lowe

he Asian turtle crisis, driven largely Tby market demand from China, has decimated tortoise and freshwater turtle populations throughout Asia in recent decades. When wild populations were effectively exhausted locally, the trade expanded globally and began to put pressure on wild populations in the United States. Given the availability of shipment options, lax harvest regulations and other logistical conveniences, the trade of U.S. turtles to China quickly boomed, driven primarily by a small contingent of harvesters who tapped into a niche market. The insatiable demand for turtles as food, medicine or pets in A portion of a flyer distributed at a turtle harvest co-op recruitment meeting in Texas in 2007. The organizer China resulted in staggering export figures. served as a middleman between his co-op members and the Asian markets, buying turtles by the pound As an example, 250,000 wild-caught turtles from collectors throughout the state and then exporting them in bulk. were shipped from a single airport in Texas from 2002 to 2005. A study by the World to develop long-term harvest rules based protected species can expect this debate Chelonian Trust during that same period on current population needs. However, in to continue. Legislation protecting turtles estimates that 31.8 million turtles, 97% some places, this led to unexpected results. from commercial harvest varies widely from farm-raised, were exported out of the U.S. In 2006, Maryland’s state wildlife agency state to state. Obviously, most do not allow With an improved infrastructure, harvests imposed a diamondback terrapin trapping the harvest of species listed as protected also supply a demand for turtles in state- ban from November to July, but allowed (endangered, threatened, etc.) at either side Asian markets (see the related article on turtles to be trapped throughout the rest of the federal or state level. However, when Philadelphia’s Chinatown). Given the long the year. In that same year, the number of harvesting with nets and traps, even these life-span and low reproduction rates of turtles reported turtles harvested jumped to more protected species are at risk of being trapped (with some species not being reproductively than 10,000, which represented a twenty- and potentially misidentified or suffering viable until 20 years or older), harvests fold increase from the previous year. The catch-related mortality. It is very difficult at these levels have the potential to cause increase was indicative of increasing market for wildlife inspectors to catch these species devastating crashes in a wild population. demand, along with a response to the change during export, when they are mixed in with in size limits that was a part of the change shipments of hundreds or thousands of other When this trend caught the attention of in regulation. In 2007, Maryland imposed a turtles. biologists and outdoor enthusiasts, groups complete ban on diamondback terrapins. began to push for legislation to better regulate A variety of groups throughout the country The biggest challenge facing states with the commercial harvest of chelonians at the including the Center for Biological Diversity, legislation already in place is enforcement. state level. However, in some cases, legislators NGOs, IUCN Tortoise & Freshwater Turtle Regulations vary widely and many states with faced a very unique challenge in that they Specialist Group, community organizations, a ban on commercial harvest share a border were trying to evaluate a situation in which zoos and aquariums, have mobilized and with states that do not, making the potential turtles were disappearing faster than wild petitioned their state wildlife agencies for poaching and false reporting (i.e. claiming populations could be studied. Classified as to regulate turtle harvest in recent years. that poached turtles were harvested legally in non-game wildlife or fisheries resources in Many have been successful and states have a neighboring state) very high. In addition, many states, turtle surveys and research have responded. Recent hard-fought battles in many state wildlife agencies do not have historically been given a low priority at the South Carolina and Florida have resulted the manpower or capacity to enforce broad state level and little data existed on which to in some of the strictest regulations in the new regulations, especially for taxa that are base legislative decisions. Some states tried to country. Undoubtedly, as changes are made widespread and harvested across hundreds of stem the tide by putting temporary regulations throughout the country, states that still public and private ponds, streams, rivers and in place, while giving their biologists time allow unregulated harvest of their non- lakes. Nevertheless, outstanding enforcement

48 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE • Connecticut Unlimited, unregulated commercial harvest of common snapping turtles allowed. No permit required, unless using a hook and line.

• Delaware Seasonal commercial harvest of common snapping turtle and diamondback terrapin allowed with a license. Common snappers are subject to size limits, and there are bag limits on diamondback terrapins. Traps should be checked every 48 hours; no tagging requirement on traps.

• Florida Commercial harvest by individuals prohibited in July 2009. Limited commercial take will be allowed (with special permit) by registered aquaculture facilities to increase their breeding stock. Regulations are still being finalized and are designed to encourage the state’s turtle farms to become self- contained (without a need for wild harvest) in the near future.

• Georgia Unlimited commercial harvest of non- protected species allowed, as turtles are classified as “nuisance” animal along with rats, mice, coyotes, armadillos, venomous snakes, groundhogs, etc. No limit on the number of nets or traps to be used. Commercial fishing permit required only for harvest from public waters. Legislation was proposed in 2009 to regulate harvest, but it failed to pass. efforts occur, including the recent indictment the ponds and streams where many of you • Illinois of 17 people for reptile trade by the New York may have developed your interest in turtles No commercial harvest allowed. Department of Environmental Conservation. as a child. • Indiana The summary that follows represents a • Alabama No commercial harvest allowed. ‘snapshot’ of current turtle legislation across Commercial harvest of common snappers the eastern half of the United States, as it and softshells permitted with free “turtle • Iowa relates to commercial harvest – turtles that catcher / dealer” permit. Permit holders Commercial harvest of common snapping, are harvested and then sold. Details on must comply with size limits and complete softshell and painted turtles allowed with a harvest for personal use (as food, pets, etc.) monthly reports regarding their catch and permit. Possession limits equal 100 lb. of live are not included in this analysis. The full text sales. No take or possession of more than 10 turtles or 50 lb. of dressed turtles. Traps are of the applicable regulations can be obtained turtles per day from public waters for any to be tagged with identification and checked by contacting your state wildlife management reason. regularly. agency. Some trends appear, such as the fact that many states (even those that have • Arkansas • Kentucky banned the commercial harvest of all other Commercial harvest of all non-protected Common snappers and softshells may be species) continue to allow limitless harvest turtles, except alligator snapping, chicken commercially harvested year-round with no of common snapping turtles. Many TSA and box turtles, is permitted with no limits. limits. Some protected areas are outlined members are actively working on this issue Licenses are required and harvests are to be where harvesting is not permitted. Traps are in their home states via research (see related reported to the state. Traps are to be checked to be checked regularly, but no tagging of article), advocacy or other means. You are regularly and equipment is to be tagged with traps is required. encouraged to educate yourself on this issue, identification. as it is one that hits home by reaching into

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 49 • Louisiana • New Jersey a special permit issued by the state. There is Traps must be checked daily and labeled Seasonal commercial harvest of common no restriction on the sale of turtles harvested “turtle trap”, but no identification tag is snapping turtles allowed with special permit. under this permit. required. Commercial harvest of alligator No bag limits or size limits imposed. snapping turtles and box turtles is • Tennessee prohibited. Commercial harvest of other • New York Common snapping turtle may be harvested non-protected species allowed with license. Commercial harvest of diamondback terrapin commercially year round with no bag limits, No limits on legally harvested species except and common snapping turtles is allowed with only size limits. All non-protected species for diamondback terrapins which cannot be the proper license; seasons, bag limits and may be harvested in the Reelfoot Wildlife taken by a trap and have a season and size size limits are imposed. Legal implements Management Area. Reports are required on limit imposed. for harvest of diamondback terrapin include, all harvests and traps must be tagged with dip nets, hand capture, seine nets and traps. identification and checked regularly. • Maine Traps must be designed for live capture only, No commercial harvest allowed since 2002. tagged with identification and checked daily. • Texas The only legal implement for taking snappers Commercial turtle harvest is prohibited • Maryland is a firearm or a bow; no reports are required in public waters as of 2007. However, the Commercial harvest of common snapping for this species. commercial harvest of red-eared slider, turtles is permitted for license holders. Size common snapping and softshell turtles from limits are imposed and reports must be • North Carolina private waters is allowed with no limits – a submitted annually. Regulations are reviewed Commercial harvest of snapping, mud and harvest permit and trip tickets (reporting annually. musk turtles allowed with license; bag limits forms) are required. The challenge unique to imposed. this situation is that 97% of Texas lands are • Massachusetts privately-owned. Commercial harvest of common snapping • Ohio turtles is allowed year round with a special Seasonal commercial harvest of snapping • Vermont permit. Regulations include size limits, but and softshell turtles allowed with no limits. Commercial turtle harvest allowed with no limits on the number of animals taken. Records of sale must be maintained for special permit, no bag limits or size limits State biologists are working on a proposal to five years and traps must be tagged with imposed. end commercial harvest. identification. • Virginia • Michigan • Oklahoma Commercial harvest of snapping turtles is Commercial harvest of all reptiles and A three-year moratorium on commercial allowed with special permit. Seasons are amphibians is prohibited. harvest from public waters passed in May outlined and harvest is subject to size limits, 2008. Commercial harvest of all terrestrial but no bag limits. Reports must be provided. • Minnesota turtles and of alligator snapping, chicken and Seasonal commercial harvest allowed with map turtles from private waters is prohibited. proper licensing; license requirement waived Commercial harvest from private waters of • West Virginia for residents younger than 18 for turtle other non-protected species is allowed with a No commercial harvest allowed racing. Size and bag limits imposed. No new license, no limits are imposed. commercial licenses are being issued at this • Wisconsin time; only renewals. • Pennsylvania No commercial harvest is allowed. Seasonal commercial harvest of common Commercial license required for commercial • Mississippi snapping turtles is allowed with a special harvest from border waters with states that Commercial harvest of snapping turtles permit. Regulations include bag limits, but allow commercial harvest. allowed with a permit and size limit. no size limits. Traps must be tagged with identification. Turtles with protected status, implying • Missouri that harvest in most cases is prohibited. Turtle harvesting permitted under sport • Rhode Island fishing permit (for personal consumption) Commercial harvest of common snapping and also under commercial fishing permit. turtles is allowed with special permit. Traps For commercial turtle harvest on the three must be tagged with identification. Heather Lowe rivers in the state where it’s permitted, there Program Coordinator, TSA is no bag limit, size limit, or closed season. • South Carolina 817/759-7262 A single vehicle cannot transport more than [email protected] • New Hampshire 10 turtles at a time or 20 total in a year, No commercial harvest allowed. out of the state. An exception is in place for yellowbelly and common snapping Heather Lowe works as the Program Coordinator turtles harvested from private waters under for the Turtle Survival Alliance and has advocated for legislation regulating turtle harvest in Texas.

50 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE State Common name Scientific Name State Status Federal Status Alabama Gopher tortoise (range clarified) Gopherus polyphemus n/a Threatened Alabama red-belly turtle Pseudemys alabamensis n/a Endangered Flattened musk turtle (range clarified) Sternotherus depressus n/a Threatened Arkansas Chicken Turtle Deirochelys reticularia Special Concern Alligator snapping turtle Macrochelys temminckii Special Concern Eastern box turtle Terrapene c. carolina Special Concern Ornate Box Turtle Terrapene ornata Special Concern Connecticut Wood turtle Clemmys insculpta Special Concern Bog turtle Clemmys muhlenbergii Endangered Threatened Eastern box turtle Terrapene c. carolina Special Concern Delaware Bog Turtle Glyptemys muhlenbergii Endangered Threatened Florida Gopher tortoise Gopherus polyphemus Threatened Barbour’s map turtle Graptemys barbouri Special Concern Striped mud turtle Kinosternon baurii Endangered Alligator snapping turtle Macroclemys temminckii Special Concern Suwannee cooter Pseudemys concinna suwanniensis Special Concern Georgia Spotted Turtle Clemmys guttata Unusual Bog Turtle Glyptemys muhlenbergii Endangered Threatened (SA)* Gopher Tortoise Gopherus polyphemus Threatened Barbour’s Map Turtle Graptemys barbouri Threatened Map Turtle Graptemys geographica Rare Alabama Map Turtle Graptemys pulchra Rare Alligator Snapping Turtle Macrochelys temminckii Threatened Carolina Diamond-backed Terrapin Malaclemys terrapin centrata Unusual Illinois Spotted Turtle Clemmys guttata Endangered Blanding’s Turtle Emydoidea blandingii Threatened Illinois Mud Turtle Kinosternon flavescens Endangered Alligator Snapping Turtle Macrochelys temminckii Endangered River Cooter Pseudemys concinna Endangered Indiana Spotted Turtle Clemmys guttata Endangered Blanding’s Turtle Emydoidea blandingii Endangered Eastern Mud Turlte Kinosternon subrubrum Endangered Alligator Snapping Turtle Macrochelys temminckii Endangered Hieroglyphic River Cooter Pseudemys concinna Endangered Eastern Box Turtle Terrapene carolina Special Concern Ornate Box Turtle Terrapene ornata Endangered Iowa Wood Turtle Clemmys insculpta Endangered Blanding’s Turtle Emydoidea blandingii Threatened Yellow Mud Turtle Kinosternon flavescens Endangered Common Musk Turtle Sternotherus odoratus Threatened Ornate Box Turtle Terrapene ornata Threatened Kentucky None Louisiana Gopher Tortoise Gopherus polyphemus Threatened Threatened Ringed Map Turtle Graptemys oculifera Threatened Threatened Maine Spotted Turtle Clemmys guttata Threatened Blanding’s Turtle Emys blandingii Endangered Wood Turtle Glyptemys insculpta Special concern Box Turtle Terrapene carolina Endangered Maryland Eastern Spiny Softshell Apalone spinifera In need of conservation Bog Turtle Glyptemys muhlenbergii Threatened Threatened Map Turtle (range clarified) Graptemys geographica Endangered Massachusetts Blanding’s Turtle Emydoidea blandingii Threatened Wood Turtle Glyptemys insculpta Special Concern Bog Turtle Glyptemys muhlenbergii Endangered Threatened Diamond-backed Terrapin Malaclemys terrapin Threatened Northern Red-bellied Cooter Pseudemys rubriventris Endangered Endangered Eastern Box Turtle Terrapene carolina Special Concern Michigan Spotted Turtle Clemmys guttata Threatened Minnesota Smooth Softshell Apalone mutica Special Concern Snapping Turtle Chelydra serpentina Special Concern Blanding’s Turtle Emydoidea blandingii Threatened Wood Turtle Glyptemys insculpta Threatened Mississippi Gopher Tortoise Gopherus polyphemus Imperiled Threatened Yellow-blotched Map Turtle Graptemys flavimaculata Imperiled Threatened Black-knobbed Map Turtle Graptemys nigrinoda Imperiled Ringed Map Turtle Graptemys oculifera Imperiled Threatened Mississippi Redbelly Turtle Pseudemys Critically Imperiled

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 51 Missouri Western Chicken Turtle Deirochelys reticularia miaria Endangered Blanding’s Turtle Emydoidea blandingii Endangered Yellow Mud Turtle Kinosternon f. flavescens Endangered Illinois Mud Turtle Kinosternon f. spooneri Endangered New Hampshire Spotted Turtle Clemmys guttata Threatened Blanding’s Turtle Emydoidea blandingii Endangered New Jersey Spotted Turtle Clemmys guttata Special Concern Wood Turtle Glyptemys insculpta Threatened Bog Turtle Glyptemys muhlenbergii Endangered Threatened Northern Diamondback Terrapin Malaclemys terrapin terrapin Special Concern Eastern Box Turtle Terrapene carolina carolina Special Concern New York Eastern Spiny Softshell Apalone spinifera Special Concern Spotted Turtle Clemmys guttata Special Concern Wood Turtle Clemmys insculpta Special Concern Bog Turtle Clemmys muhlenbergii Endangered Threatened Blanding’s Turtle Emydoidea blandingii Threatened Mud Turtle Kinosternon subrubrum Endangered Eastern Box Turtle Terrapene carolina Special Concern North Carolina Eastern spiny softshell Apalone spinifera spinifera Special Concern Bog Turtle Glyptemys muhlenbergii Threatened Threatened (SA)* Diamondback terrapin Malaclemys terrapin Special Concern Stripeneck musk turtle Sternotherus minor peltifer Special Concern Ohio Spotted Turtle Clemmys guttata Threatened Blanding’s turtle Emydoidea blandingii Special Concern False map turtle Graptemys pseudogeographica Special Concern Eastern box turtle Terrapene carolina Special Concern Oklahoma Map Turtle Graptemys geographica Special Concern Alligator Snapping Turtle Macrochelys temminckii Special Concern Pennsylvania Blanding’s Turtle Emydoidea blandingii Candidate Bog Turtle Glyptemys muhlenbergii Endangered Threatened Red-bellied Turtle Pseudemys rubriventris Threatened Rhode Island Spotted Turtle Clemmys guttata Protected Wood Turtle Clemmys insculpta Protected/Concern Northern Diamondback Terrapin Malaclemys t. terrapin Endangered/Protected Eastern Box Turtle Terrapene carolina Protected South Carolina Florida Softshell Apalone ferox Special Concern Spotted Turtle Clemmys guttata Threatened Bog Turtle Glyptemys muhlenbergii Threatened Threatened (SA)* Gopher Tortoise Gopherus polyphemus Endangered Striped Mud Turtle Kinosternon baurii Special Concern Tennessee Bog Turtle Glyptemys muhlenbergii Threatened Threatened (SA)* Texas Texas Tortoise Gopherus berlandieri Threatened Cagle’s Map Turtle Graptemys caglei Threatened Chihuahuan Mud Turtle Kinosternon hirtipes murrayi Threatened Alligator Snapping Turtle Macrochelys temminckii Threatened Vermont Spiny Softshell Apalone spinifera Threatened Spotted Turtle Clemmys guttata Endangered Wood Turtle Clemmys insculpta Special Concern Northern Map Turtle Graptemys geographica Special Concern Stinkpot Sternotherus odoratus Special Concern Virginia Eastern Chicken Turtle Deirochelys reticularia reticularia Endangered Bog Turtle Glyptemys muhlenbergii Endangered Threatened (SA)* West Virginia None Wisconsin Smooth Softshell Apalone mutica Special Concern - take regulated by seasons

Wood Turtle Clemmys insculpta Threatened Blanding’s Turtle Emydoidea blandingii Threatened False Map Turtle Graptemys pseudogeographica Special Concern - take regulated by seasons

Ornate Box Turtle Terrapene ornata Endangered

* SA - due to similarity of appearance

52 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 53 North America

A Market Survey and Growth Study of Turtles from Philadelphia’s Chinatown

Laura Del Collo and Scott P. McRobert, Ph.D.

n recent years, a tremendous amount Iof attention has been paid to the state of turtles in Asian countries owing to their use in food, traditional medicines and the pet trade. While international and national regulations exist to control the trade in some species, recent market surveys have found endangered species in markets throughout Asia. In addition, many species not currently listed as threatened or endangered may soon be in peril from their collection for market trade. A decline in wild turtle populations in China has resulted in trade that now increasingly depends on turtles from other regions, including the United States. While much work is being conducted throughout LAURA DEL COLLO Asia, we were interested in the use of turtles Photos are taken whenever possible during market surveys, for species identification and documentation in Asian markets in the United States and purposes. thus initiated this study. In the fall of 2008, backed by funding from the Dietrich W. barrier made our attempts to discuss turtles market was a small grocery store that sold Botstiber Foundation (a group that typically with them very difficult. fresh seafood and produce. Adult turtles funds efforts to foster ethical treatment were again held in large plastic containers of animals), we began a systematic survey The markets that regularly sold turtles without water, located on the floor in of turtles in the markets of Chinatown in included a large grocery store that sold front of the seafood counters. This market Philadelphia. Associated with this survey fresh and packaged food. The turtles here also offered juvenile red-eared sliders in a we began a program in which we will bring were held in large plastic containers on the small plastic pan on the floor underneath a animals from Chinatown markets into our floor, typically without water. The second produce shelf. Gutted small softshell turtles laboratory for an assessment of their health and as an effort to rescue some animals from the trade. This report represents a preliminary description of our efforts in the first year of the project, and a call for people interested in this work to join us in these efforts.

In the initial phase of the survey, Chinatown markets were monitored weekly or biweekly for a period of seven months, beginning in LAURA DEL COLLO September 2008. Four markets that sold Turtles in the markets surveyed are often held in tubs with no water. turtles were identified and other markets were periodically visited to confirm that no turtles were being sold. Turtle quantities, estimated sizes, species, characteristics, and living environments were noted. Photographs were taken when possible and later analyzed in an attempt to identify species. It should be noted that our presence in the markets was not

met with great favor. Shopkeepers appeared LAURA DEL COLLO nervous when we arrived and the language Softshell turtles are kept in plastic net bags.

54 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE LAURA DEL COLLO One of the few turtle tanks in the surveyed area that contained water. LAURA DEL COLLO Red-eared slider juveniles (Trachemys scripta elegans).

were occasionally found on ice along with from a commercial breeder. All turtles were related article). For example, the Florida the seafood. The third market sold only maintained in 76 l aquaria at approximately Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission seafood and their turtles were housed in clear 26oC, under a 12:12 light:dark cycle, and fed (FWCC) implemented a harvest limit of plastic tanks that lined the walls and usually commercial food (Wardley’s Reptile Premium twenty turtles per day beginning in September contained 1-2 cm of water. In the fourth Sticks). Over the six-month period, no 2008. However, despite this restriction, market, turtles were kept in two large tanks differences were noted in growth between the Florida softshells were consistently present in that were filled entirely with water. two groups. However the Chinatown turtles Philadelphia’s Chinatown market throughout experienced a 30% mortality rate while none the survey period, and these markets Over the first seven months we recorded 455 of the breeder turtles died. In future years, represent only a small fraction of the national “sightings” of turtles in the markets (Note: we plan to bring in animals representing all and international trade and demand. Florida These numbers do not represent the total species found in the markets for similar tests. is currently fine-tuning their legislation and number of actual turtles as many turtles were similar discussions are being held in many likely counted on multiple survey days). The This study represents the beginning of a long- states. It will be interesting to see if such 455 sightings included 188 smaller (< 30 cm) term project to monitor the appearance of restrictions change the quantity or variety of Florida and Chinese softshells (Apalone ferox turtles in Asian markets within the United species found in the markets next year. and Pelodiscus sinensis), 31 large (> 30 cm) States. In the first year, weekly surveys of softshells (Apalone ferox), 175 juvenile, and Philadelphia’s Chinatown noted no illegal four adult red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta trade of endangered species (most likely due Laura Del Collo and Scott P. McRobert, elegans), and 57 diamondback terrapins to the strict enforcement of U.S. regulations), Ph.D. (Malaclemys terrapin), which were observed although the sale of turtles with carapace Department of Biology on only two occasions in February and lengths under 4 inches (like the juvenile Saint Joseph’s University March, 2009. red-eared sliders), has been banned since Philadelphia, PA 19131 1975 owing to concerns over salmonellosis. [email protected] As a measure of health in the Chinatown And while we found no protected species, turtles, ten juvenile red-eared sliders were the use of turtles in these markets represents purchased and brought into the laboratory. harvesting of species that may well need This research represents some of the great work Growth in these turtles was monitored protection soon. Indeed, legislation is being being done by TSA members around the world. Dr. McRobert has been a member of the TSA since over six months and compared to growth considered in a number of states to restrict, 2004. in a group of juvenile sliders obtained or ban, the harvesting of wild turtles (see

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 55 RANGE COUNTRY: Myanmar

TSA and WCS sponsored workshop provides blueprint for turtle conservation in Myanmar

Rick Hudson, Win Ko Ko, Khin Myo Myo and Steve Platt

rom 7 – 10 January 2009 the Turtle FSurvival Alliance (TSA) and Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), in conjunction with the Myanmar Forestry Department, conducted two workshops in Mandalay. A Species Recovery Plan (SRP) workshop for the Myanmar roof turtle (Batagur trivittata) was followed by a comprehensive trade workshop entitled “Developing an Integrative Strategy for Handling Confiscated Turtles in Myanmar.” Around 50 people participated in the four-day workshop including the Director General of the Forestry Department and representatives from universities, wildlife sanctuaries and captive chelonian facilities in Myanmar. A multinational contingent, or Team Burma, included representatives from TSA (Rick Hudson, Gerald Kuchling, and Brian Horne), Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group (TFTSG) (Peter Paul van Dijk), WCS (Bill Holmstrom, Steve and Kalyar Platt, Bonnie Raphael) and the Female star tortoises at Lawkananda WS generally nest in a cluster, preferring sunny exposed Asian Turtle Conservation Program (Tim locations at a high point in the enclosure. McCormack). The workshop produced documents on potential release sites for A group of well cared for Burmese star tortoises at the Lawkananda Wildlife Sanctuary facility in Bagan. confiscated chelonians, release strategies, prioritized list of species for assurance

colonies and special handling, recommended sites for assurance colonies and rescue facilities, captive and wild management strategies for Myanmar roof turtles (Batagur trivittata) and a captive management plan for Myanmar star tortoises (Geochelone platynota). Concurrent with the general workshop, a half-day training workshop on identification, husbandry and medical management of chelonians rescued from the trade was conducted at Yadanobon Zoo. A post-conference facility assessment tour was conducted 11 – 20 January 2009 with site visits to at least eight sites that either maintain captive chelonians or have the potential to do so.

The final report provides a clear strategy for turtle conservation in Myanmar for the next five years. Currently Myanmar is considered

56 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE This privately-run star tortoise breeding facility in Bagan maintains a large concentrated number of adults, outnumbering the combined breeding stock of all the government-run operations. This situation should be remedied by integrating the genetic contribution from more wild-caught founders into the managed population.

Steve and Kalyar Platt conduct a workshop on handling confiscated chelonians in Mandalay in January 2009. Kalyar’s ability to converse fluently in both Burmese and English was essential tothe success of the workshop.

ground zero for turtle conservation in Asia, and the volume of turtles pouring across the border into China is staggering. Bordering five nations, and with porous borders lacking adequate enforcement capacity, Myanmar has become a prime trade route for illegal wildlife, particularly chelonians. Fortunately, Myanmar still has some healthy turtle populations remaining that can be saved but swift action is required. With 27 species of chelonians, seven of them endemic, Myanmar is a true turtle diversity hotspot and one of the highest priorities for turtle conservation globally. We believe that this workshop successfully launched a process to protect this important resource. This workshop was generously supported with grants from the Turtle Conservation Fund (TCF), Andy Sabin and the Batchelor Foundation, and with major funding from

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 57 WCS and TSA. Following the workshop, Team Burma embarked on a ten-day tour to assess the needs and potential of the various chelonian facilities throughout Myanmar. Six Forestry Department-run facilities and two privately-owned ventures were inspected and the following recommendations made:

• Expansion of the Myanmar star tortoise (Geochelone platynota) facilities at Lawkananda Wildlife Sanctuary in Bagan and Shwesettaw Wildlife Sanctuary

• Construction of new and expanded Myanmar roof turtle (Batagur trivittata) facilities at Yadanabon Zoo and Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary

• Development of three new turtle rescue facilities in Lashio, Myitkyina and Mandalay – all along major trade routes into China

• Building three Asian mountain New grow-out facilities like these for juvenile Batagur trivittata must be expanded soon. Batagur tortoise (Manouria emys) facilities grow rapidly and require much larger facilities within four years of hatching. to distribute the group of 60 that was rescued in August 2007 and still New star tortoise facilities - such as this one at Minsontaung Wildlife Sanctuary - will be built in the resides at Yadanabon Zoo coming years to provide improved security and husbandry conditions for captive groups. Such assurance colonies are necessary to guarantee the survival of this species, now considered • Building two facilities for the Arakan functionally extinct in nature. forest turtle (Heosemys depressa) within the natural range of the species

This first round of recommended construction projects addresses immediate needs related to handling confiscations, and expands the size and scope of assurance colonies for several critically endangered chelonians. However, it fails to address the need to develop new facilities for managing both of Myanmar’s endemic softshell species, Nilssonia formosa and Chitra vandijki. Softshell turtles present their own unique set of husbandry challenges, and we must plan this phase carefully.

In addition to captive facility construction, the Myanmar turtle conservation strategy will require capacity building in the form of training workshops to be successful, along with hiring new dedicated staff positions. A full-time turtle conservation coordinator and a veterinarian will be required to effectively manage the diverse scope of

58 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE proposed activities. Within the next few months we will be receiving cost estimates on the construction work and start the prioritization process for funding. The price tag for this program will not be unreasonable – estimated at $1.2 million over five years – but it will require that the TSA launch a full-scale fundraising drive. For the strategy to be successful it will be necessary for Steve and Kalyar Platt to move to Myanmar and head up this program full-time. A five-year salary commitment is now being sought from private sources. Mobilizing this strategy is certainly one of the boldest and most ambitious ventures that TSA has embarked on to date, but one that is completely necessary if we are to avoid massive losses to Myanmar’s remarkable turtle fauna. We will be meeting this challenge with a strong team approach composed of foreign NGOs, private donors and government, and we are confident that if we can find the funds for salaries, the rest of the pieces will fall into place.

Summary of Key Recommendations A young male Batagur trivittata at theYadanabon Zoo breeding / management facility. Within the first four years of the field program, over 240 hatchlings were collected for headstarting and the facility is already beyond maximum capacity. Kachuga trivittata Species Recovery Plan Trade seizures are becoming more commonplace in Myanmar, as increasing numbers of turtles are smuggled across the border into China. The January 2009 workshop produced a 1) Begin releasing 15% of K. trivittata comprehensive strategy for handling confiscations that should greatly improve survival. hatchlings at the site where the nest was laid; 2) Begin releasing larger headstarted K. trivittata that have an improved chance of survival; males especially should be released in areas where females are laying infertile clutches; 3) Continue river surveys to search for surviving populations; 4) Establish fishing free or restricted zones within the core six-mile stretch of the upper Chindwin River where nesting in concentrated; 5) Initiate studies of the wild nesting ecology while the opportunity still exists. This is critical to understanding the sex- determining temperature relationships; 6) Expand the carrying capacity of the captive population to 25 breeding pairs and 400 juveniles; 7) Expand the captive management

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 59 7) Improvements to tortoise husbandry 4) For an effective process to be Summary of Key Recommendations (cont.) should be implemented at all facilities implemented for handling confiscated facilities for rearing juveniles at including better access to sunlight, chelonians, an extensive training Yadanabon Zoo, and build two new improved nutrition, better nesting process will need to occur - at multiple facilities in different locations, the first areas, provision of bedding materials to levels - including enforcement, turtle priority being the Htamanthi Wildlife protect juveniles from cool weather, and husbandry and first response veterinary Sanctuary - Homelin. provision of retreats and shade structures care and triage; for adults; 5) Hiring a full time Turtle Conservation Geochelone platynota 8) Improving security measures at all Coordinator (TCC) will be necessary in Species Recovery Plan facilities should become a high priority, order to implement an effective process 1) Integrate all five of the Myanmar such that the practice of moving for handling trade seizures. This position star tortoise breeding facilities – four tortoises to secure night enclosures will can be hired through the WCS Myanmar government-run and one private – such not be necessary; office in Yangon; that they are managed cooperatively and 9) All future releases of star tortoises 6) A full-time veterinarian should be as a single assurance colony, with the should be carefully planned with hired and committed to the turtle goal of maintaining a disease-free and respect to specimen selection (age, sex, confiscation and placement process. genetically diverse captive population parentage/genetics, value to captive This position could also be hired for the long-term survival of the species; program), identification, release site through the WCS Myanmar office and 2) Increase the number of potential selection, follow up monitoring, supported by the TSA. founders (presumably unrelated, wild- protection and enforcement capacity caught animals) in the four government at release site and pre-release health facilities to ~200 adult breeders, or screening. Assurance Colonies 100 pairs. This will require that the 1) The following eight species were disproportionate number of genetically Placement of Confiscated Turtles recommended for captive assurance valuable wild-caught founders at Griffin 1) Two first response turtle rescue centers colony development: Kachuga trivittata, Enterprises be distributed more evenly should be constructed in Lashio and Geochelone platynota, Nilssonia formosa, among all facilities; Myitkyina, both of which are situated Chitra vandijki, Heosemys depressa, 3) Improve record keeping in all facilities along major trade routes into China. Manouria emys, M. impressa, Platysternon and individually identify all star tortoises These facilities are where confiscated megacephalum and Melanochelys t. with a PIT tag (microchip). A complete chelonians would be brought edeniana (endemic subspecies). Others inventory of ALL captive star tortoises immediately following seizure for initial include Cuora mouhotii, Batagur baska, and their IDs should be maintained. No triage and treatment until decisions can and Indotestudo elongata. Specific star tortoise should be moved out of the be made regarding their disposition recommendations for each species have country without an ID; and placement. These facilities should been made. 4) Resolve the disparity in the process be located on Forestry Department 2) Ten locations that are considered by which star tortoises are selected and land, and staffed by Wildlife Sanctuary appropriate for assurance colonies include transferred from the private Griffin personnel; Hlawga Park, Rakhine Yoma Elephant Enterprises to the government. Improve 2) A long-term turtle rehabilitation Range, Htamanthi WS - Homelin, colony management, record keeping and treatment center should be built Minsontaung WS, Lawkananda WS, and specimen accountability at Griffin in Mandalay where priority species Kyaikhtiyow, Huakang Tiger Reserve, Enterprises; can receive extended care, prior to Lashio, Shwesettaw Wildlife Sanctuary, 5) New and expanded star tortoise integration into assurance colonies, or and Yadanabon Zoo. Other sites should breeding facilities should be constructed release; be evaluated for suitability. Specific at both Shwesettaw and Lawkananda 3) The process of obtaining facility recommendations for each site and Wildlife Sanctuaries; designs and cost estimates should get facility have been made. 6) Quarantine areas should be designated underway in August 2009. A team from for the new facilities at both Yadanabon TSA should visit Myanmar to meet with Zoo and Minsontaung Wildlife architects and builders to discuss layout Sanctuary; and specific design features;

60 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE Other News from Myanmar

First captive breeding of the Burmese roof turtle

A high point of the January 2009 workshop was the announcement that a juvenile Batagur trivitatta had been pulled from the adult breeding pond at the Yadanabon Zoo just one week earlier. Apparently hatched in 2008 from an undetected nest, the specimen is in the same size class as a cohort of 2008 wild-hatched juveniles from the Upper Chindwin River. Robust and healthy, the hatchling had obviously fared well in the semi-natural adult breeding pond. The keeper reports that several others have been seen up basking in the adult pond, and a full inspection of the sand nest bank revealed a number of old nests with hatched egg shells. This is remarkable news and helps settle our concerns that something was missing in their captive diet or environment. At the time of this writing 17 new hatchlings from 2009 have recently been recovered. B. trivittata is one of the most threatened species of turtles on earth and was considered close to extinction when it was “rediscovered” in a temple pond in Mandalay in 2002. A dedicated captive breeding and management  This juvenile Burmese roof turtle hatched in 2008 and is the first known captive breeding facility was opened in December 2006 which for this critically endangered species. Some is already at maximum capacity with 163 of the adults have been in captivity since 2002 and the dedicated breeding facility opened young trivittata collected on the Chindwin in December 2006. from 2006 – 2008. The B. trivittata Species Recovery Plan workshop in January 2009 recommended that two new facilities be built  Some of the 17 Batagur trivittata hatched to allow captive population growth while at the Yadanabon Zoo in 2009. suitable release sites are found.

 Yadanabon Zoo veterinarian Tint Lwin proudly displays a juvenile Batagur trivittata, the first known specimen to hatch at the captive breeding facility in Mandalay.

We're Serious About Saving Turtles

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 61 Burmese roof turtle field report

The field research and conservation program for the endemic Burmese roofed turtle (Batagur trivittata) continues under the WCS Myanmar Program, and is based on the Upper Chindwin River. The primary goal is to study the remnant nesting population, protect nests, and collect hatchlings for headstarting at the Yadanabon Zoo. The eventual goal is to begin restocking young adult B. trivittata WIN KO KO to the river in areas that are part of their former range and that convey some measure Left. Hatchling Burmese peacock softshell turtles (Nilssonia formosa) hatched on the Chindwin River of protection from the intensive fishing and transferred to the Yadanobon Zoo for headstarting. practices that are so prevalent there. The wild Right. Some of the 80 hatchling Batagur trivittata collected on the Chindwin River and transported populations are drastically depleted, so much to the Yadanabon Zoo. so that along one stretch of river female B. trivittata continue to lay infertile eggs, likely evidence that no males exist in that habitat. Releasing headstarted adult males in this area may provide a boost to the population, and would represent a stellar example of the wild and captive populations being managed as one, to augment and support one another. WCS and Forestry Department biologists Kyaw Moe and Win Ko Ko are in charge of this aspect of the field program and continue to survey the Chindwin for turtles. They report that 2009 was again a fairly good year for reproduction. However, due to gold mining activity, no nests were laid on one of the major sand banks where two females laid in 2006 – 2008. Despite this disturbance, 80 hatchlings were collected from protected nest sites and transported to the Yadanabon WIN KO KO Zoo for headstarting, bringing the total to 243 over the past four years (2006 – 2009). Finally, captive work began on another Myanmar endemic, as eight hatchling Burmese peacock softshell turtles (Nilssonia formosa) were collected and taken to the Zoo for rearing. Local education efforts continued as WCS biologist Khin Myo Myo and Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary staff presented talks to teachers from 13 villages within the B. trivittata project area. These efforts are considered crucial to cultivate a culture of awareness of the importance of protecting this unique resource. This program will continue in July 2009.

Khin Myo Myo and her team visit village schools within the core project area to help develop conservation awareness for turtle protection.

Protection of wild Batagur trivittata nests, or moving eggs to protected hatcheries such as this one, is one of the cornerstones of the Upper Chindwin field program. Hatchlings collected in this manner have allowed the numbers of this heavily depleted species to increase exponentially since 2006. Committed to0 Zero Turtle Extinction

62 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE With the threat still looming that the Upper Chindwin river will be dammed, inundating all known B. trivittata nesting beaches, it is critical that the field team learn as much as possible now to help direct recovery efforts in future years. Areas of the river that will not be affected by the proposed dam must be surveyed to determine if they provide suitable habitat and nesting sites so that new populations might be started with headstarted turtles. From February to April, a team led by Win Ko Ko began surveying potential areas for releasing B. trivittata in the Hukaung Tiger Reserve (HTR), in the Kachin State. This was followed up in May 2009 when Brian Horne and Win Ko Ko, working with HTR staff, surveyed three headwater rivers of the Chindwin (Tarong, Tanai, and Tawanga) for their suitability for releasing headstarted

turtles as well as interviewing fisherman BRIAN HORNE concerning the historical presence of B. trivittata in the region. Villagers within the Hukaung Tiger Reserve are shown shells from various Myanmar species to determine if they have seen them in the area.

Traveling by elephant is often necessary in the Huakaung Valley. WIN KO KO

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 63 The Tawanga River is a shallow braided river that has relatively little suitable habitat for B. trivittata, and only Amyda cartilingea and Cyclemys sp. were documented. The Tanai River may have the best habitat of the three rivers but has high levels of commercial fishing as well as boat traffic (the river is the main transportation corridor to the downstream villages and goldmines). Interestingly, a lone fisherman informed Brian and Win Ko Ko that four years ago he caught a single 30 cm B. trivittata in an oxbow lake adjacent to the main channel. This was the only historical record of the turtle within the region that was revealed during their interviews. The Tarong River is a transportation corridor for rattan harvesters (a palm used in furniture making) to send their products upstream for export to China, but commercial fishing is relatively limited within the region. Furthermore, the river’s numerous backwaters may provide excellent habitat for juvenile B. trivittata. It is our hope that we can begin a region-wide WIN KO KO awareness program and start experimentally releasing a select number of turtles shortly. Brian Horne is shown here interviewing local villagers to determine the presence or absence of key species within their particular area.

The Huakaung Tiger Reserve turtle survey team in May 2009. WIN KO KO

64 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE Arakan Forest turtle surveys

The Arakan forest turtle Heosemys( depressa) is endemic to the Arakan Hills of western Myanmar, and considered one of the least known turtles in the world. Heosemys depressa is classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN due to continuing over-exploitation and its limited distribution. To gain a better understanding of the biology of this poorly known species, Steven Platt (Sul Ross State University) led a field team into the Rakhine Yoma Elephant Range (RYER) of western Myanmar from 25 May through 10 June to conduct a preliminary survey. RYER is a sanctuary designed to protect Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) and encompasses over 175,000 hectares of steep mountains cloaked in dense bamboo forest. Few trails penetrate the sanctuary and access is difficult, especially during the wet season. The survey team included WCS Biologist Khin Myo Myo and members of the Myanmar Forest Department stationed at RYER. The primary objectives of this survey were to assess the conservation Left. Two juvenile Heosemys depressa were found during the survey in dense bamboo forest. status of H. depressa in the RYER, and train Right. Steve Platt (center) and Khin Myo Myo (right) collect data on a Heosemys depressa captured the team in basic survey and data collection during turtle surveys of Yoma Rakhine Elephant Range. techniques so they can return and conduct a more intensive survey later in the wet season. The team found five H. depressa, including two very small juveniles in the dense bamboo (NWCD), Forest Department and Ministry of Forestry. We are genuinely appreciative forest at elevations ranging from 180 to 240 Rick Hudson of the support and encouragement of U Tin m. Each turtle was measured, permanently President, Turtle Survival Alliance Tun, NWCD Director, and U Than Myint, marked, and its location noted before being [email protected] released at the point of capture. Feces WCS Myanmar Director, both of who make working in Myanmar a rewarding endeavor. collected from several of the turtles contained Win Ko Ko unidentified vegetation, bamboo flowers, and The TSA wishes to graciously acknowledge WCS Myanmar Turtle Conservation immature bamboo seeds. These are the first Program observations biologists have ever made of H. the following individuals and organizations for their generous and steadfast support: Pat depressa in the wild. Additionally, thirteen Khin Myo Myo Indotestudo elongata and a single Cyclemys Koval and WWF Canada, Nature’s Own, Detroit Zoological Institute, Batchelor WCS Myanmar Turtle Conservation sp. were found during the survey. Given the Program size of the RYER, the limited area surveyed, Foundation, British Chelonia Group, Frank and Kate Slavens, and EAZA Shellshock. [email protected] the lack of access and human presence in the [email protected] sanctuary, and the number of turtles found The Arakan Forest turtle work is funded by a 2009 grant from the Turtle Conservation during the relatively brief survey period, Steve Platt, PhD RYER appears to offer excellent prospects for Fund (TCF) and with a grant from Andy Sabin to WCS. The Upper Chindwin B. Biology Department the future conservation of wild populations Sul Ross University, Alpine, Texas of H. depressa. trivittata project was funded with support from the TCF, WCS and Andy Sabin. Brian [email protected] Horne’s surveys in the Hukaung Tiger Acknowledgements Reserve were funded with a grant from the MacArthur Foundation to WCS. The TSA is heavily invested in the conservation The TSA would be unable to develop a turtle of Myanmar’s endemic chelonians, partnering conservation program in Myanmar without  with the WCS Myanmar Program on key species the support of the WCS Myanmar Program initiatives. A major fundraising campaign is in the and the close collaboration of the Myanmar works to expand this program and to implement Committed to Zero Turtle Extinction a comprehensive strategy for protecting this Government’s Yadanabon Zoological Garden, important turtle fauna. Nature and Wildlife Conservation Division

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 65 RANGE COUNTRY: India

TSA India - A Comprehensive Approach to Saving an Imperiled Turtle Fauna

Shailendra Singh and Brian D. Horne

Introduction

he TSA India Program – now in its sixth Tyear – had humble origins as essentially a single species conservation initiative to aid the recovery of the critically endangered red-crowned roof turtle (Batagur kachuga). Managed initially under the auspices of the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust, the program gained momentum when San Diego Zoo’s Institute for Conservation Research (then CRES) came on as a partner in 2006. Today, this program is truly comprehensive in nature, with multiple species initiatives, all with a multi-faceted approach. As you read some of the exciting news in this story, take note of the remarkable efforts being made to consider the social factor and the needs of local people. Poverty and lack of alternative sources of income (other than catching turtles) are the root cause of turtle declines in India and must be addressed. The challenge now is for those trained in the biological BHASKER M DIXIT sciences to also become familiar with local politics and socioeconomics, and to recruit Ashutosh Tripathi (right) marks Chitra indica nests at a communal site along a steep bank. A nylon people that can work in this arena to help mesh barrier is erected to contain hatchlings. our cause. Hatchling Chitra either released or retained for headstarting. New Chitra Conservation Project off to an Impressive Start mentioned hunting as well as unprecedented In the fall of 2008, we initiated a status changes in the riverine habitats (e.g., river assessment and experimental hatch-and- linkages, impoundments, and high levels of release program for the endangered Indian water pollution). Over a hundred wetlands Narrow Headed Softshell turtle (Chitra in twenty districts in the state of Uttar indica). This is an extensively hunted Pradesh were surveyed from 2005-2008. We species in north India, mostly for its outer found that C. indica currently occurs in less cartilaginous rim or “calipee.” Although its than 10% of these habitats compared to 30% dried calipee is considered to be sub-standard two decades before. in comparison to the other sympatric softshell turtle species due to a relative high We have been collecting data regarding the ASUHTOSH TRIPATHI fat content, it is still unsustainably exported exploitation of C. indica from different parts for traditional Chinese medicine and as a of the state since 2005, yet it wasn’t until this Due to a paucity of scientific literature on luxury food (the base for a gelatinous soup). year that we were able to start a species-specific the species, we engaged several former turtle conservation research and action thanks in poachers to rapidly gain local knowledge of the This species is now only found in limited part to a grant from the Cleveland Metroparks species. The former poachers proved to very numbers outside protected wetlands and Zoos. valuable in locating the few remaining breeding rivers of north India due to the above populations of C. indica in remote rivers.

66 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE We selected a C. indica nesting area near the In early October 2008, 732 hatchlings clock guarded hatcheries, which we provide town of Farrhukabad along the Ganges River emerged; most were immediately released during the Batagur kachuga and Batagur to begin our nest protection and hatch-and- after we recorded standard morphological dhongoka nesting season. Notably, we believe release program. We fenced a 15 m area along measurements and injected Decimal Coded the nest with 192 eggs is the largest clutch a steep bank where nests were discovered Wire (DCW) tags under the skin of the size ever recorded for C. indica. with nylon mesh fishing net to create our hind limbs for long-term monitoring. We hatchery. The hatchery provided protection transferred a group of 40 to a village pond In the spring of 2009, we helped renovate from predators like monitor lizards (Varanus in Terai (Foothills of Himalaya) and ten to a defunct softshell turtle facility at Kukrail bengalensis) and jackals (Canis aureus) as well our turtle head-starting facility in the village (a state-run crocodile headstarting facility as poaching for human consumption. We of Garhaita along the Chambal River for near the city of Lucknow) for headstarting ASUHTOSH TRIPATHI SHAILENDRA SINGH

Some of the 730 Chitra indica that hatched in October 2008 awaiting release. Eggs obtained from fishermen are reburied on a sand bank for incubation. Protecting Ashutosh Tripathi (right of sign) coordinates the Chitra conservation initiative in India. Now in its such nests from jackal predation is a major second year, this project has shown remarkable progress in just a short time. challenge.

head-starting. We purchased an additional C. indica hatchlings for at least a year before three nests (over 350 eggs), from local turtle shifting them to community ponds. This poachers, and relocated them to our hatchery, headstarting facility will allow us to retain yet these failed to hatch. This was probably over 500 hatchlings per year. It is our hopes due to mishandling of the eggs during early that the soft-release into the community embryonic development as these eggs were ponds will better prepare the turtles for reportedly removed from this field site prior transition into their natural habitats. to the establishment of our hatchery. Notable is that this defunct facility was used in the historic release of tens of thousands of We also purchased two nests (252 eggs) from Ganges softshell turtles (Nilssonia gangeticus)

SHAILENDRA SINGH fishermen on the Yamuna River (30 km up to abate the number of human corpses in the Yamuna-Chambal River confluence) and Ganges River in the early 1980s. surveyed areas close to Ramganga-Ganges relocated them to the sandbank near Gharita River confluence from mid-July to mid- for in situ incubation. This sandbank was October, and between mid-July and mid- chosen as earlier in the nesting season we had August, we collected seven nests (961 eggs) located a nest (192 eggs) at this site. Sadly, and relocated them to the hatchery. All nests all three of these nests were depredated. This were equipped with temperature data loggers. again emphasizes the need for around the

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 67 Chambal River Sanctuary Program Protects Two Species of Sympatric Batagur

Large batagurid turtles of the genus Batagur are probably the most threatened freshwater turtles in India. Their populations have been immensely reduced due to multiple factors such as poaching, accidental drowning in fishing gear, and habitat destruction. They have all but disappeared from most of the Ganges river system, one of the world’s largest watersheds. Reports from the 1980’s and 1990’s documented the Indian Red- THOMAS RAINWATER Crowned Roofed Turtle (Batagur kachuga) SHAILENDRA SINGH as a rare species, and the Three Striped Roof Turtle (Batagur dhongoka) as rapidly Brian Horne and Shailendra Singh releasing The new Batagur grow-out facility – funded juvenile B. kachuga into a newly-built by the TSA and British Chelonia Group - at declining. The Chambal River (the name enclosure at the Deori Eco-Center. the Deori Eco-Center on the Chambal sake of the National Chambal Sanctuary), River. has received moderate protection as India’s only protected riverine habitat for three decades, and is believed to be one of the last sections of National Chambal Sanctuary. Thus, we were able to protect 90 B. kachuga strong holds for these two species but even To date, we have not been able to establish and 157 B. dhongoka nests in our hatcheries here, B. kachuga are rare. a nest protection program in the Rajasthan this year that would have otherwise most section of the river. We hope to do so in the likely been destroyed by jackals (Canis In four field seasons (2006-2009), our near future. Yet, we were able to survey over aureus). Over 3,800 hatchlings were released program has been highly successful. We have 400 km of river to record nesting locations, within 24 hours of nest emergence. We were been able to protect over 300 B. kachuga nests nesting density, nest depredation rates, and able to mark 1,300 of these hatchlings with and 1,700 B. dhongoka nests in 11 different anthropogenic pressures on the turtles. From injectable decimal coded wire tags as well as riverside hatcheries. these data, we were able to prioritize the plastic color tags (small self locking cable ties protection of nesting habitat through the use attached through a 3 mm hole in a posterior In mid-January 2009, we started our annual of a Habitat Suitability Index (HSI), which marginal scute) before releasing them into nest surveys and nest protection programs in turn allowed us to determine where to the Chambal River for survival and migration in the Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh establish our three in situ hatcheries. studies. SHAILENDRA SINGH BRIAN HORNE

This riverine hatchery on the Chambal River successfully protects hundreds of nests from predation This refurbished gharial facility at Deori will each year. Due to a high hatch rate, many thousands of hatchling Batagur (two species) are provide additional headstarting space for returned to this ecosystem each year. large Batagur.

68 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE New research initiatives need to include the post-release survival of headstarted turtles to gauge the success of these programs.

With limited opportunities and resources, this year we again enlisted services of members of fishing communities and riverside agriculturists in our turtle hatch- release and survey programs. After their employments with us, they gave up their riverside agriculture and we were able to protect three important turtle nesting banks and about 60+ turtle nests.

Additional surveys outside the Chambal The new “green” Batagur headstarting facility was built at the Garhaita Turtle Rehab Center (GTRC) National Sanctuary along the Ghaghara, near the town of Etawah, and will open soon with solar powered filtration and water circulation. This facility was funded in part by the Turtle Conservation Fund. Kane, and Son Rivers are being conducted in hopes of finding additional habitats suitable for release of our headstarted B. kachuga. In the near future, we plan to survey another Hatching success rates for the two hatcheries relatively low. Furthermore, our future river- Betwa - where Madhya Pradesh Forest in Uttar Pradesh were 99% and hatching efforts need to address the continued human Department released over 100 Batagur success rate for the single hatchery in induced pressure on the survival of adult (unknown ratio of B. kachuga to B. dhongoka) Madhya Pradesh was 92%. We shifted turtles. With the presumed low survival rate in 2003. approximately 150 newly hatched B. kachuga of hatchlings and the lengthy maturation to the new head-starting facilities, where we rate (an estimated 15-20+ years to reach With the generous support from Turtle will maintain them until they attain a mass of maturity for females), we need to sustain Conservation Fund, Disney Worldwide 1 kg (approximately three years of age). the production of thousands of hatchlings Conservation Fund, and the Beneficia per year if we hope to reverse the decline of Foundation, we have expanded our in situ Although we are succeeding at protecting turtle populations in the Chambal River. In turtle rearing capacity at both the Garhaita nests on a few important nesting banks, there addition, we need to develop an in-depth Turtle Rehabilitation Center and Deori turtle is still a great need to expand our efforts due understanding of the nesting ecology and centers. These funds enabled us to maintain to the population of adult turtles remaining long-term yearly trends for both species. over 1,000 B. kachuga of different age classes for the headstarting program.

A defunct Gharial facility at the state-run Deori Eco-Center was renovated while a new facility was built at the Garhaita Turtle Rehab Center (GTRC) near the town of Etawah. Both these facilities (16 X 5 X 1.5 m) are equipped with floating basking and nesting platforms. We transferred over 300 B. kachuga (2003-2007) and 20 B. dhongoka in the new facility at Deori this May. We are planning to begin releasing the 2003-2005 turtles in the spring of 2010. Turtles will be equipped with long-lived sonic transmitters to monitor their movement as well as survival.

We transferred over 200 B. kachuga and 100 B. dhongoka yearlings (2006-2008) to the new facility of GTRC, which will be soon equipped with a bio-filtration pond and a

ASUHTOSH TRIPATHI solar powered pump to make it a water and energy-efficient facility, a necessity in the Two of the primary threats to turtles in the Chambal are illustrated here. Monofilament nets are water- scarce Chambal region. indiscriminate in what they catch and drown thousands of trapped turtles each year. In the background riverside agriculture disrupts turtle nesting habitat.

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 69 Alternative Livelihood and Moreover, a pilot rehabilitation program them to develop eco-friendly livelihood Socio-Economic Programs for ex-turtle poachers is being developed. options. We have been experimenting with enlisting With the collaborative support of the their services in various turtle conservation We launched a wide-ranging education Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund and projects. Although there have been positive programs for different target groups especially the Beneficia Foundation, we are trying results during our field seasons, this option in the “problem” villages (villages that have in to develop a major intervention program is very limited and can engage them only the past clashed with authorities within the through resource assessment and eco- for a few months in a year. Ten ex-poachers National Chambal Sanctuary) and critical friendly alternative livelihood options for from different regions have been selected, conservation stretches for aquatic river fauna different socio-economic groups to reduce especially the Terai, Ganges River, and in Chambal River. We are currently targeting the anthropogenic pressures on the river Chambal River, and we are working with the local villagers and primary school children. ecosystem.

During the first phase of the program, we surveyed a 100 km stretch river (up from the downstream confluence of the Chambal- Yamuna Rivers) to quantify pressures and identify possible solutions. This area is highly sensitive in terms of conservation management as the turtles may leave the sanctuary and enter unprotected areas with concentrated commercial fishing.

We collected socio-economic information and conducted resource appraisal through household surveys, direct observations, and secondary sources of information (mostly government pamphlets) to design the rehabilitation program. We classified different villages according to their needs, community structure, education and resource availability. The classification will KHEM B BHADAURIA help us to develop wide-ranging programs Gatherings such as this one in the riverside village of Etawah celebrate the incredible biodiversity according to their individual and varying of the National Chambal River Sanctuary, and help cultivate a culture of awareness, especially needs. among the youth.

This camel rally was held on World Turtle Day. A mobile education unit now goes village to village A temporary help center has been opened for on camel to create awareness for the biodiversity of the sanctuary, and has become very popular fishing and other riparian communities in the with the locals. town of Chakarnagar (close to the sanctuary’s buffer zone) in order to inform residents of various government welfare programs. The primary aim of this center is to bridge the gap between rural villagers and state and federal government. We hope to facilitate the meetings of various representatives from government departments like dairy, agriculture, cattle farming, soil reclamation, forestry, veterinary, primary health care, primary education, etc) with the riparian community. This later can be supported with our alternative livelihood project. We are also planning to initiate a weekly boat clinic in stretches close to Yamuna-Chambal confluence to provide easy primary medical facilities to the inhabitants of the sanctuary and garner community support to our conservation projects. ASUHTOSH TRIPATHI

70 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE We additionally conducted “Sanrakchan create a conservation network of local village We have been conducting the education Panchyat” (Conservation Village Meetings) chiefs and stakeholders, which in turn will programs for various primary school children in different villages of lower Chambal. The increase the effectiveness of our conservation during the weekends and on important days aim of this program is to increase awareness program. We have been recording the views of Environmental Calendar like National regarding the sanctuary’s flora and fauna. (and traditional knowledge) of the villagers, Wildlife Week, World Wetland Day, Forestry At these meetings, we discussed various which may be used in the formulation of Day, International Biodiversity Day, World conservation challenges like poaching, illegal effective management plan of the sanctuary. Turtle Day, and World Environment Day etc fishing, sand mining, and agriculture on the In the meetings, we try to revitalize the local at GTRC. Soon we will expand our child riverbank and more importantly villagers’ and religious sentiments for the river and and adult education programs at the Garhaita views regarding the impact of protected biodiversity through cultural programs and Turtle Center by renovating and expanding its area. It is our hope that these meetings will traditional songs. education facility (thanks largely to funding from Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund and the Beneficia Foundation). Programs for children have included plays (on various issues of the sanctuary), hands-on demonstrations, painting competitions, lectures, rallies, and interactive sessions. At present, over 500 children are visiting our center each month.

We are also conducting education outreach programs in the primary schools. Outreach programs are being conducted for approximately 200 schools situated along the 180 km stretch of the lower Chambal in the National Chambal Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh. Our target audience is children between 5 and 15 years of age. We have also developed scales (quiz competitions conducted during a follow up program for same class/age group) to measure the effectiveness of these education efforts. This year we conducted KHEM B BHADAURIA over fifty such programs inside the sanctuary.

Educational outreach targets children between the ages of five and 15 and seeks to engage them in a variety of ways including plays, puppet shows and other interactive activities. To increase outreach, we have started a mobile education unit on camel cart to go TSA India has sponsored several educational special events over the past year, including this village to village and spread the awareness gathering to commemorate the International Day of Action Against Dams and for River, Water and Life. regarding the biodiversity of the sanctuary. The cultural team on the cart plays the traditional local songs; many villagers in the area worship the Chambal River as deity. We display all the traditional conservation slogans on the cart. This education unit is becoming more popular each day among the villagers. We hope to add more colored displays and educational puppet shows to this unit to attract more villagers and spread our conservation message effectively.

In addition, we are in process of developing a children’s coloring book on India’s turtles with the generous support from the Serenity Foundation. This multilingual book will contain information regarding the various endangered turtle species and their habitats in the India. ASUHTOSH TRIPATHI

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 71 The Sunderban Batagur – India’s most threatened turtle

After obtaining a six-month permit from the West Bengal state forestry department, we began our conservation efforts for the critically endangered river terrapin, Batagur baska. The recent phylogenetic work by Peter Praschag and colleagues identified the Indian populations of Batagur baska to be genetically distinct from other populations in Southeast Asia. Peter’s findings made it imperative to begin more active conservation measures for the species as populations in the Indian Sunderbans are believed to number less than 20 to 30 animals, with no nesting areas currently known or protected!

However, a small group of animals remains in the Sajnekhali Interpretation Center of the Sunderban Tiger Reserve (STR).

Adults (8.3) are reportedly the remaining SHAILENDRA SINGH individuals that were a part of the state forest department’s headstarting program in 1990, while a juvenile was confiscated A female Sunderbans Batagur near the village Bagna of STR in 2006. We The entrance to the Sunderban Tiger Reserve at Sajnekhali, home to the only known potential performed a primary health assessment and breeding group of Batagur baska, the most highly endangered of India’s turtles. found that the individuals are healthy and may breed if modifications to the existing SHAILENDRA SINGH

72 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE animals (two lone adult females) at the STR facility and at Madras Crocodile Bank Trust (MCBT) for initiating a species recovery program. We are awaiting permission from the state forest department to add the basking platforms, nesting areas, privacy fencing, and improved turtle diet to the facility at STR. We are also hoping that in the near future we will be able to arrange a breeding loan of two adult males from the STR to MCBT.

Assam

With the help of the Center for Wildlife Research and Conservation Action, a volunteer student network based at Guwahati University’s Zoology Department, we initiated a freshwater turtle education program in the state of Assam (northeast India adjacent to northern Myanmar). This project aims to spread awareness regarding

BIKASH K. SAHA various endangered freshwater turtle species especially Pangshura sylhetensis, Nilssonia nigricans and Pelochelys cantori. In addition, A male Sunderbans Batagur held by Shailendra Singh. the project will assess the status and These Batagur baska was netted from the pond at Sajnekhali where this important population (8.3) distribution of these three species. From this is held. With funding from Pat Koval and WWF Canada, this facility will be modified to improve information, we plan to formulate a long- basking and nesting areas, as well as security. term conservation action plan based heavily on community participation. This research was supported with a grant from the Rufford Small Grant Foundation and the TSA India Program.

Conclusion

Our current conservation efforts are positively impacting five endangered turtle species - Batagur kachuga, Batagur dhongoka, Batagur baska, Chitra indica, and the crowned river turtle (Hardella thurjii) - but are restricted to two states in the north. India is a large country and the threats to turtles are widespread. The TSA program must expand our reach and impact. Within the next three years we hope

BIKASH K. SAHA to initiate new projects for four additional endangered species, the Assam roof turtle facility are made (currently no nesting area is turtle trappers along the various river habitats (Pangshura sylhentensis), Black softshell turtle provided) and supplements are made to the historical known to have B. baska. They (Nilssonia nigricans), Leith’s softshell turtle animals’ diet. This aspect of the program is confirmed the steep decline of this species (Nilssonia leithi) and the Asian giant softshell generously supported by Pat Koval through and could not direct us to any areas that (Pelochelys cantorii). In fact, the eventual goal WWF Canada. were still known to have turtle populations. is to mobilize turtle conservation teams that Overall, no individuals or any direct evidence are active throughout India, particularly in We made boat surveys along the riverside encountered during the surveys gives any hotspots such as Orissa, Kerala / the Western villages of the STR and costal parts of the credence to a substantial population of B. Ghats and the Brahmaputra River system. state of West Bengal and the state of Orissa. baska within the Indian Sunderbans. TSA India is continuously creating dialogues We also interviewed fishermen and former Thus, we are heavily relying on the captive with various turtle researchers, conservation

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 73 groups, and government officials in India – especially Sameer Whitaker and Gowri and across Southeast Asia to better determine Mallapur – are thanked for logistic and Update on captive breeding of the red- the status of India’s freshwater turtles and administrative support to this nationwide crowned roof turtle (Batagur kachuga) develop new conservation initiatives. Novel conservation program. at the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust. approaches will be increasingly necessary and we will have to become more creative Nikhil Whitaker as we try to mitigate the human factor in turtle declines. If we are to have any hope For the fifth year, the critically endangered red-crowned roof turtle (Batagur kachuga) of achieving success, it will be by coming to Shailendra Singh, Director has reproduced in captivity at the Madras grips with the needs of the local communities TSA India Program Crocodile Bank Trust (MCBT). The 2009 that share these riparian resources with the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust season saw a maximum production of turtles that we are trying to save. [email protected] hatchlings - 29 in all - and these are all doing well, with one month old animals Brian Horne Acknowledgements having increased in weight by 50% San Diego Zoo The TSA India Program is a joint endeavor compared to recently hatched ones. Institute for Conservation Research of the TSA, the San Diego Zoo’s Institute [email protected] for Conservation Research, and the Madras The first clutch of eggs was discovered Crocodile Bank Trust. Numerous people at MCBT in 2003, but were infertile. have been instrumental in our success and Between 2004 and 2009, there were one to we would like to particularly acknowledge five clutches every year, save for 2006 when the participation of Ashutosh Tripathi, The TSA India Program is a joint endeavor of the TSA, the San Diego Zoo’s Institute for no nesting occurred. Eggs were collected Rishikesh Sharma, Nikhil Whitaker, Bhasker Conservation Research, and the Madras Crocodile in February – March of every year, except M. Dixit, Rupali Ghosh, Khem B Bhadauria, Bank Trust. This comprehensive program has in 2004, 2008, and 2009 when nests were multiple components and species conservation Chittaranjan Baruah, Pradeep Saxena, missed and hatching occurred naturally in Sanjiban Das, Bikash K. Saha and the initiatives, and is funded by a growing number of supporters. the enclosure. The number of nests rose to plethora of volunteers in along the Chambal six in 2009 indicating multiple clutching River, the Terai, and the state of West Bengal. by females, almost certainly due to improved husbandry conditions. Possible We extend our thanks to the Turtle contributing factors include increased Survival Alliance for taking the lead in the height of the communal nesting mound, conservation of India’s imperiled turtle We're Serious trimming of branches that provided more fauna. This is a comprehensive program access to sunlight, a mesh haul out ramp with multiple components and is completely About that facilitated basking by adults, and the dependent on outside funding. For generous introduction of soya pellets into the diet. financial support we graciously acknowledge Saving Turtles the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund, 132 total eggs were laid through 2009 with Pat Koval and WWF Canada, Beneficia an overall viability of 69%. A total of 75 Foundation, Batchelor Foundation, San Diego hatchlings were produced from these eggs, Zoo’s Institute for Conservation Research, with 24 animals going to back to Uttar Nature’s Own, Turtle Conservation Fund, Pradesh for release in 2007. Several eggs Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and Cleveland collected were found to be cracked, but Zoological Society, EAZA Shellshock, British as long as the shell membrane remained Chelonia Group, Serenity Foundation and intact these eggs usually incubated to term. the Rufford Small Grant Foundation. We thank the state forest departments of Uttar Courtship of adults is observed in Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, and September through October, probably Assam for various permissions and logistical remaining true to the natural range support in the field. We extend our sincere of the species in Northern India. The gratitude to Rick Hudson for his continuous group of breeding animals at MCBT did encouragement and project suggestions. We not experience the major fluctuations thank Romulus Whitaker and Janaki Lenin experienced in their natural habitat, for their inputs and suggestions. Various but lower temperatures could have been forest officials who have supported the field achieved by selecting deeper areas of the team in various possible ways are HS Pabla, TURTLETSA SURVIVAL ALLIANCE breeding pond. VK Patnaik, Eva Sharma, Neeraj Kumar, N. Luikham, Bhaumik Chandra Bhrahma, Anjan Guha, US Dohre, Suresh Pal Singh. www.TurtleSurvival.org Madras Crocodile Banks Trustee and staff

74 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE Expansion of the captive program for B. kachuga at MCBT began in 2004 with construction of new rearing and breeding ponds. These were funded by the TSA with support from the Turtle Conservation Fund, British Chelonia Group, and Walter Sedgwick.

Acknowledgements

Most thanks is due to the folks at Turtle Survival Alliance, for their advice on husbandry, veterinary issues, and their assistance in designing and funding grow- out ponds for hatchlings and juvenile, in addition to their on site visits and valuable NIKHIL WITAKER One of 75 red-crowned roof turtles that hatched at the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust (MCBT) since 2004. discussions. I particularly thank Rick Husbandry improvements led to multiple clutching by females in 2009 with a record 29 hatchlings. Hudson, Brian Horne, Shannon Ferrell. D. Basu, B. C. Choudhury, Lonnie McCaskill, Rom Whitaker, Gowri Mallapur, Soham Mukherjee, Gangadurai, Pindey, Seth, and our in situ field scientist, Shailendra Singh, who assisted this project in a number of ways. Jeff Lang is acknowledged for his donation of equipment.

Nikhil Whitaker, Curator Madras Crocodile Bank Trust P.O. Box 4, Mammallapuram Tamil Nadu 603 104 [email protected] NIKHIL WITAKER A male Batagur kachuga hauled out to bask at the MCBT breeding facility. NIKHIL WITAKER Hatchling Batagur grow rapidly as shown by this comparison of a hatchling with one that is a month old. TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 75 RANGE COUNTRY: Madagascar

Preliminary results of community based monitoring of the Radiated Tortoise at Lavavolo Classified Forest, Madagascar

Tsilavo Hasina Rafeliarisoa

he radiated tortoise (Astrochelys Tradiata) inhabits the dry spiny forests of southern and southwestern Madagascar. Regarded as a flagship species of the region, the existence of A. radiata is threatened by habitat destruction, illicit collection for local consumption and illegal trade in international markets. Poaching of the tortoises takes place year-round but predominantly occurs JEAN CLAUDE RAKOTONIAINA in March. Annually, confiscations of hundreds of individuals are reported in both Dorsal view for identification of A. radiata. Madagascar and Asia. These threats have led to its current status as critically endangered radiated tortoise population is composed according to IUCN Red List criteria and predominantly of adults (82.9%) with a listing in Appendix I of CITES. mean weight and straight carapace length of 5.98±1.69kg and 31.14±3.64cm, respectively. During the 2007 Turtle Survival Alliance Additionally, baseline genetic parameters (TSA) meeting, Sébastien Rioux Paquette, are being analyzed in Omaha at the HDZ François-Joseph Lapointe and Edward Louis laboratory to investigate population structure brought attention to the alarming decline and existence of multiple sire paternity. of the radiated tortoise populations over the past decade. In response to this devastating In March 2008, the RTP began monitoring decline, a grant was awarded from Radiated nest site parameters for six nests. Each nest Tortoise Species Survival Plan (SSP), and the site was located by following gravid females Radiated Tortoise Project (RTP) was initiated until egg deposition upon which HOBO by the Henry Doorly Zoo’s Madagascar devices were installed to record ambient and Biodiversity and Biogeography Project nest temperatures, rain fall, soil moisture and (HDZ-MBP). The RTP is a multi-faceted air humidity. These preliminary data will program including research, education, increase the understanding of the natural and community involvement that aims to history of this species in the wild and pro- improve the status of A. radiata in southern vide valuable information applicable for any Madagascar, where the species remains largely in situ and ex situ breeding program. Since unprotected. The Lavavolo area was selected temperature is one of the major parameters as the initial site for long-term conservation affecting the biology of many tortoise and since the people of Lavavolo still maintain turtle species, these data will also provide an the local “fady” (taboo) against eating or indication of the effect of temperature upon harming the tortoises. sex determination. Therefore, a 2010 objec- tive is to correlate results from the HOBO An important part of the conservation devices with endoscopic data from newly management plan for endangered species is hatched individuals from multiple monitored research. A total of 194 tortoises have been nests. Community involvement is essen- monitored from 2007 to present. For long- tial in developing conservation framework; term identification purposes, each individual therefore, two local guides from Lavavolo vil- is assigned an ID number, photographed lage were trained to monitor the populations (dorsal and ventral views), micro-chipped and nests while regularly collecting data from (left rear leg) and measured using standard the HOBO devices. These guides’ salaries morphometric parameters. Preliminary were funded through a seed grant awarded by results have shown that Lavavolo’s Turtle Survival Alliance in 2008. RICK HUDSON

76 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE JEAN CLAUDE RAKOTONIAINA JEAN CLAUDE RAKOTONIAINA Tolisoa and Mandritoetse, project guides, supported Children at Lavavolo primary schools receiving the MBP coloring and activity books. by a grant from the TSA. an extremely poor quality fuel wood, it continues to be sacrificed for the production of charcoal. Therefore, to provide an alternative to charcoal, the MBP plans to conduct on-site workshops to demonstrate how to make fuel briquettes from biofuel materials (grass, rice husks, paper, or leaves) and fuel-efficient rocket stoves to reduce overall charcoal consumption. In conclusion, through the combination of local education and monitoring programs managed by the people of Lavavolo, the community will benefit as a direct result of conservation, and thus contribute to the survival of the critically endangered radiated tortoise. JEAN CLAUDE RAKOTONIAINA MBP project personnel installing a HOBO device on a radiated tortoise nest. Tsilavo Hasina Rafeliarisoa In April 2009, as part of the education the local teachers, citizens and authorities. Doctoral candidate component of the community based Two main deficiencies were continually University of Antananarivo, Faculty of program, coloring and activity books voiced, electricity and water. Since the Sciences, Animal Biology Department illustrating the biodiversity of Madagascar, region is well known for its solar and wind Field Supervisor of Radiated Tortoise including the Malagasy tortoises, were energy potential, the project aims to generate Project: Madagascar Biodiversity & distributed to 210 pupils at Lavavolo primary support for the installation of solar and wind Biogeography Project schools. During the presentation of these powered equipment for priority buildings Henry Doorly Zoo, Grewcock’s Center educational materials, the MBP education such as the schools, medical and public for Conservation and Research coordinator outlined the purposes of the facilities. By providing green alternatives 3701 South 10th Street project and the utilization of the coloring such as solar powered lighting for school Omaha, NE 68107 books to explain the richness of the region’s classrooms (promoting a better learning Lab phone: (402)738-2095 fauna and flora and why it is worthwhile environment) or wind powered water [email protected] to preserve. A follow-up evaluation of the desalination and filtration (providing potable [email protected] coloring books will be conducted at the end water) a positive message or link between a of this year to improve future conservation conservation program and its surrounding education materials. community can be developed.

Furthermore, the MBP education coordinator The primary cause of habitat loss for southern Support for this project was provided by conducted an initial evaluation to determine Madagascar is charcoal harvested from the the TSA Seed Grant Program the needs of the Lavavolo community remaining spiny forest. Even though this through survey questionnaires distributed to forest type, unique to this region, produces

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 77 RANGE COUNTRY: China

Second breeding attempt for Rafetus swinhoei in China leads to cautious optimism

Gerald Kuchling and Lu Shunqing

he epic move of the last Chinese Tfemale Yangtze giant softshell turtle (Rafetus swinhoei) from Changsha Zoo to the last Chinese male at the Suzhou Zoo in 2008 resulted in successful mating (see TSA Newsletter 2008), producing two clutches totalling over one hundred eggs. Despite this success, unfortunately none of the eggs hatched. About half the eggs of the second clutch were not properly shelled and many cracked during laying. Nutritional deficencies of the long-term captive female – over 70 years in captivity - were most likely to blame for this setback, and apparently caused any fertilized eggs to die early during development. Despite this disappointment, this event captured the attention of the global conservation community, and the remarkable story was featured in a PBS/Nature special called The Loneliest Animals that aired on April 19, 2009. To view, go to http://www. GERALD KUCHLING pbs.org/wnet/nature/episodes/the-loneliest- A copulation attempt by the Rafetus pair in late April 2009. animals/video-full-episode/4935/

This problem with the eggs had been foreseen and a nutritional workshop held in Changsha in May 2007 had resulted in some improvements to the diet of the female. Since yolk formation for eggs in turtles takes many months, there is always a delay until dietary improvements can result in better egg hatchability. So, in actuality, a balanced diet is needed in the year prior to oviposition to improve hatching success. Unfortunately however, due to concerns of the Chinese stakeholders that the female did not eat enough after her move to Suzhou, her diet was reverted back to primarily meat and liver in May 2008. Only since August 2008 was this problem addressed by providing an improved diet to the female including vitamin and calcium supplements. Concerns for the well- being of the female by her Chinese guardians resulted in recommendations for dietary changes being slowly implemented. But GERALD KUCHLING now chicken parts with bone, fresh whole GERALD KUCHLING The female Rafetus has been observed eating trash A glass barrier such as this one is urgently needed fish, crayfish and gutted quail with calcium thrown into her pond from zoo visitors which could to protect the pair of Rafetus from visitors’s throwing supplements are offered routinely; this bodes threaten her health and survival. trash and live turtles into their pond.

78 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE GERALD KUCHLING Offering whole fresh quail with calcium supplements helps improve the nutritional status of Rafetus diets at the Suzhou Zoo. EMILY KING GERALD KUCHLING Female Rafetus exhibiting open-mouth basking Keepers at the Suzhou Zoo carefully excavate the nest where 56 eggs were deposited on 31 May 2009. behavior for thermoregulation.

well for the future but somewhat clouds our of time (< 5 min). On 07 May the female nested the same night, depositing 56 eggs optimism for 2009. Despite this, we have twice vehemently swam away from the male in a nest on her sand beach. TSA again installed a rearing tank with filtration for when he tried to mount her and they were hired Chinese-American biologist Emily juveniles in anticipation of success. separated and the gate closed. The gate was King to help with monitoring breeding opened again in the morning of 10 May, and and egg incubation and on 04 June the nest Since June 2008, the male and female were again the female fled twice when the male was dug out. Four of the eggs were found kept separate in the divided breeding pond tried to mount her. For this reason the gate slightly cracked and 28 eggs were placed at Suzhou Zoo. The gate was again opened was closed again at noon. into incubators in either sand, vermiculite in the morning of 26 April 2009 and a likely or hatchrite at 29, 31 and 33°C. Incubation copulation took place the same day between The weather was unusually hot in Suzhou procedures have been modified this year to 13:05 and 14:45. On 28 April from 13:08 in early May 2009 and the behavior of the ensure adequate humidity and hydration to 13:41 another possible copulation was female suggested that she ovulated earlier and multiple incubation medias are being observed. Numerous other interactions of the than in 2008 when she first nested on 6 June. tried. The other half of the clutch was left in male and the female took place, but with the For this reason Gerald Kuchling returned the nest with two temperature data loggers. male often mounted for only short periods to Suzhou on 31 May 2009 and the female However, no clear banding of eggs could yet

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 79 better success than the first. It is obvious that further improvements to husbandry and the enclosure are needed. The good news is that Changsha Zoo is now committed to leaving their female at Suzhou Zoo until the sucessful production of hatchlings.

This effort would not have been possible without the coordination and logistic support of the WCS China office. The 2009 breeding attempt was again funded by the Turtle Survival Alliance, with generous financial support from Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden, WWF Canada, Alessandro Fornetti, David Shapiro, Frank and Kate Slavens, Taste of Thai, Jacksonville Zoo, and Thomas Jacoby. Special thanks to all those that purchased Rafetus prints this past year, the proceeds of which went to help support this remarkable effort. Prints are still available – e-mail [email protected] for details. GERALD KUCHLING Suzhou Zoo keepers setting up the first clutch of eggs for the 2009 season. As noted above, with the agreement to leave the Changsha female indefinitely at Suzhou Zoo for breeding, this becomes a long-term commitment for the TSA. Erecting a public barrier to protect these turtles – a priceless resource that cannot be replaced - is a top priority and will improve our chances of success. We cannot let this opportunity slip away due to negligence. With that in mind, we will soon mount a fundraising campaign aimed at securing the $30,000 needed for a protective barrier.

Gerald Kuchling CHELONIA ENTERPRISES 154 Bagot Road, Subiaco, WA 6008, Australia [email protected]

Lu Shunqing [email protected] WCS-China Program RICK HUDSON Nigel Marvin flanked by Frank and Kate Slavens who had the winning bid for the original commemorative Rafetus print at the 2008 TSA Auction in Tuscon. The last ditch efforts to breed Rafetus in China is one of the TSA’s most high profile, and expensive, be seen on 09 June. From 5 to 13 June the She was also seen eating plastic bags and programs. The outpouring of donor support male and female were again paired up for candy wrappers, which threatens the health reflects well on the ability of the turtle conservation breeding, and then separated on 14 June due and survival of the female and potentially community to respond in crisis. to the female’s non-receptivity. jeopardizes the entire breeding program. An improved method of separation – glass panels A disturbing trend in 2009 is that the now- – limiting zoo visitor’s access to the breeding Rafetus tamer female accepts junk food pond is imperative. However the costs of are We're Serious About Saving Turtles (bread, crackers, chips etc) thrown into her currently prohibitive, estimated at $30,000 pond by zoo visitors, eating so much that she U.S. For all these reasons it is not yet clear is not particularly hungry at feeding time. if this second breeding attempt will have

80 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE The female Rafetus at ease and basking in the breding pond at Suzhou Zoo. GERALD KUCHLING

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 81 RANGE COUNTRY: Vietnam

Close Call for the World’s Last Remaining Rafetus swinhoei in the Wild

Douglas Hendrie

orrential monsoon rains caused rivers to monitoring was intensified at the lake, and Tspill over their banks and brought water efforts were stepped up to gain support from in lakes and reservoirs to capacity throughout local fishermen and lake owners. northern Vietnam. It was mid-November 2008 and Team Rafetus Vietnam had just DOUGLAS HENDRIE When the heavy rains came in November completed a series of awareness activities in 2008, the flooding around Dong Mo Lake local communities surrounding Dong Mo was not of major concern until reports started Lake (located about 60 km west of Hanoi) filtering in from the local team that there where the world’s last known Rafetus swinhoei had been a catastrophic collapse of the dam remains in the wild. The 70kg turtle is one at the far side of the lake. Worse yet were of four living examples of the species known suggestions that the softshell had escaped in the world, another of which is in a man- through the breach in the dam and was made lake in the center of Hanoi. The two spotted in the main channel of the flooded other surviving turtles are currently the focus stream below the lake. The four kilometer of a critical conservation breeding initiative stretch of river meandered through the at Suzhou Zoo in China (see related article). district before linking up with a tributary of the Red River. Although there were sketchy The Dong Mo Rafetus, while special in its reports by local fishermen of sightings along status as the only surviving individual of its The last remaining Rafetus swinhoei in the wild. the stream, the possibility that the Rafetus species in the wild, is likely alone in the lake. had made it to the Red River was of great Current conservation efforts in Vietnam concern. focus in part on hopes of finding other living Rafetus in the wild. However, so far District fisheries and wildlife protection comprehensive surveys have produced little authorities were alerted in every district more than skulls, bones and photographs of up and down the Red River to the ocean, gigantic turtles that were caught a decade or urging them to watch for a large softshell more ago.

Team Rafetus Vietnam was established in September of 2007 when local reports suggested the presence of a large softshell turtle in Dong Mo Lake, west of Hanoi. Following a series of interviews with local fishermen confirming the presence ofa large turtle, a full-time team was put on the ground, conducting patrols, establishing observation posts, and monitoring fishing and other activities in the lake until the turtle was spotted and photographed in November 2007, confirming the presence of Rafetus swinhoei in the lake. Following confirmation of the discovery, the Rafetus team initiated additional conservation measures focused on raising awareness amongst local residents in communities about the importance of the turtle, and briefing local and national DOUGLAS HENDRIE government counterparts to enhance the A frustrated crowd waits outside the home of the fisherman who captured the turtle. turtle’s protection. At the same time,

82 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE DOUGLAS HENDRIE A huge crowd and flurry of activity complicated negotiations for the return of the turtle to the lake. that might turn up in nets or in the hands to the Red River. Team Rafetus members coordinator, Hoang Van Ha was notified of fishermen. Meanwhile, Team Rafetus put camped along the 2-3 km containment area. that a local fisherman had captured a giant in place temporary nets blocking the stream Days passed with no further sightings by our softshell turtle in the stream below Dong Mo about 2-3 km below Dong Mo Lake at its teams, and concerns grew that our response Lake earlier in the morning. The next six narrowest point, hoping to prevent the turtle had been too slow and too late. Then on hours proved to be some of the most difficult from passing if it had not already made it the morning of November 26, Team Rafetus of my 12 years working in Vietnam, and provide a testament to the obstacles that conservationists face in trying to protect endangered wildlife in Vietnam. When our team arrived at the fisherman’s house, there were already a fair number of local authorities present and more than 100 spectators as people came and went trying to get a glimpse of the huge turtle. The Rafetus lay wrapped in nets below a shaded canopy, protected from the swell of people pressing in for a look by wooden barriers.

Our objective clearly was to get the fisherman to release the turtle back into Dong Mo Lake where it came from. However, good intentions were not what the fisherman nor his family had in mind. Up all night and bearing deep scratches from the capture, the fisherman sought to negotiate a substantial reward for himself from authorities, or DOUGLAS HENDRIE offered alternatively, to sell the turtle to the Once the decision was made that the turtle would be returned to the lake, rangers worked quickly to move it to the truck that was waiting. highest bidder.

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 83 MR. THAI, CUC PHUONG TCC Once word got out about the giant softshell that had been captured, crowds of people arrived to get a glimpse of the rare animal.

From a western perspective, the case should Our role was limited to that of spectators and provincial police and leaders, updating have been cut and dry. The fisherman as endless streams of higher-ranking local Hanoi officials and asking for intervention had violated Vietnamese law by actively officials turned up, none willing to simply from Hanoi as the afternoon heat began to hunting and capturing the turtle, which is confiscate the turtle and release it back into flare tempers. Police pushed crowds out of considered a wild animal of illegal origin the lake as the law would prescribe. The the courtyard temporarily, and more police under the law. The authorities should have Rafetus was thankfully moved to a shed, were called in to assist in dealing with what confiscated the turtle immediately if the beyond the reach of spectators, that was appeared to be an increasingly unstable fisherman refused to voluntarily turn it locked and guarded by police. Ms. Nguyen situation as angry relatives of the fisherman over. A reward might even be in order to Thi Van Anh, head of ENV’s Wildlife Crime became more aggressive in their demand congratulate the fisherman for assisting in Unit was the star of the day, and her role in the for compensation, at one time, threatening the capture and return of the turtle to the day’s events would ultimately be the deciding to kill the turtle if their demands were not lake. However, as is often the case when factor in the day’s successful outcome. Van met. The main obstacle appeared to be the dealing with law breakers in Vietnam, Anh had headed up most of the team’s efforts unwillingness of anyone present at the site to enforcement of the law is a function of during the previous months to highlight the make a decision on the confiscation, though extended negotiations. And so began a day importance of the Dong Mo turtle within clearly the authorities supported return of the of exhausting discussions between local relevant ministries and amongst agency heads turtle to the lake. wildlife protection authorities, police, at the national level. Her work for ENV also and community leaders, with local leaders put her in regular contact with the right Van Anh offered to compensate the fisherman arguing the position of the fisherman who people, including the chairman (governor) for torn nets and offer a small reward for insisted that a settlement of $2,000 or of Hanoi, for which Dong Mo Lake and the assistance that the fisherman provided more was warranted for his “cooperation.” surrounding communities fell under his in returning the turtle to the lake, but jurisdiction. Van Anh met with district negotiations appeared to be stalled. However,

84 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE Unfortunately, the future of our Rafetus swinhoei is not clear. While the November rescue has brought positive attention and support for the protection of the turtle in Dong Mo Lake, he is alone and can do little to contribute to the future of his kind. Team Rafetus continues to survey both historic habitat and new sites where other turtles may persist in the wild, recently surveying rivers further south without success.

The Rafetus swinhoei Conservation Project is administered by the Asian Turtle Program of the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and Education for Nature – Vietnam (ENV), the country’s first local organization focused with protection of nature and wildlife in Vietnam. The project was started in 2000 and has involved intermittent surveys for Rafetus swinhoei throughout northern Vietnam until the recent discovery in November 2007 of the single individual living in Dong Mo Lake. At this time, the ATP has undertaken a full-time effort to ensure that the Dong Mo Rafetus is protected in its native habitat. The Rafetus Conservation Project has received support by the Turtle Survival Alliance, Turtle Conservation Fund, The Wade Foundation, and the Melbourne Zoo.

Link to Rafetus news story on VTV1: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=49WQOQ8F5X0 MR. THAI, CUC PHUONG TCC The giant softshell waits, surrounded by a crowd of people, while negotiations are carried out to determine its fate. Douglas Hendrie [email protected] sometime during the late afternoon, it is said pursuit. Reaching the lake, the crowds were Asian Turtle Program, that the governor in Hanoi was said to have more manageable, and thankfully, a number Cleveland Metroparks Zoo told police to put an end to the discussions of forest rangers arrived in time to assist with Wildlife Crime Program Advisor, and tell the fisherman either to take the deal the unloading and movement of the turtle Education for Nature – Vietnam (ENV) for a replacement net and small reward or the down to the water’s edge. Without ceremony turtle would be confiscated and the fisherman or further delay, the world’s last remaining would be punished in accordance with the Rafetus swinhoei in the wild, was wild once law. At this point, the fisherman reluctantly again, slipping into the lake, and ending The TSA has provided support to the agreed to turn over the turtle. what had been an incredible day. Rafetus program in Vietnam through a grant from the Batchelor Foundation Anxious to follow through with the decision Since the turtle’s return, Team Rafetus has as quickly as possible, Team Rafetus and local stepped up efforts to build local support for rangers wrapped the 70 kg turtle in a plastic the turtle’s protection as ENV continues to tarp and pushed through an unruly crowd of raise awareness in local communities around spectators to a truck that had been waiting the lake. Most of us involved in the incident outside the fisherman’s house since early agree that had it not been for the presence morning. Assisted by police with electric of the local team living and working at the wands attempting to keep the crowd back, lake, along with efforts to build support for the team managed to get the turtle onboard, protection of the turtle well in advance of and sped off through the village for the lake. this incident, our Dong Mo Rafetus would The five kilometer trip to the lake seemed not have survived the day. to take eternity, a trail of motorcycles in Committed to0 Zero Turtle Extinction

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 85 RANGE COUNTRY: Vietnam

Reintroduction preparations for captive bred Vietnamese Pond Turtles

Timothy McCormack and Nguyen Chi Nhan

he Asian Turtle Program (ATP) of TCleveland Metroparks Zoo (CMZ) has worked since 1998 to promote tortoise and freshwater turtle (TFT) conservation through awareness, training and research activities. The Mauremys annamensis Project (MAP) has focused on this critically endangered and endemic species in central Vietnam with a permanent field presence since 2007. MAP activities have included surveys, community meetings and wildlife protection department training in key areas. With the threats to this species now fully realised, it received full protection in 2006 under Vietnam’s principal wildlife protection law, Decree 32.

The goals of MAP are: • To identify habitat where Mauremys annamensis remains or was recently present in the wild. • Develop community support HOANG VAN THAI One of three Mauremys annamensis seen in local trade at two project sites the MAP has focused on in for conservation of the species 2008-09. through awareness and community engagement. enforcement team confiscated 19 TFT, of enforcement, research and awareness in • Ensure better protection for the including Mauremys annamensis (6), Cuora conservation aimed to encourage greater species through providing training, bourreti (2), Indotestudo elongata (1), future collaboration. information and support to relevant Heosemys grandis (1), Ocadia sinensis (4), authorities. Cyclemys pulchristriata (4) and Malayemys In addition to a focused field program, • Encourage university participation subtrijuga (1). All were placed at the Mauremys annamensis is also fortunate that in research and awareness of the Turtle Conservation Centre (TCC) in Cuc a Taxon Management Group (TMG) in the species. Phuong National Park, northern Vietnam. United States and Europe was established Importantly, the Mauremys annamensis for the species and that the TCC has been rescued represented the first confiscation successful in breeding and raising the species of the species since 2000 and increased the in captivity. This provides the possibility for Following extensive surveys in Quang captive founder stock of the TCC by almost release of TMG surplus animals back into Ngai province in 2008 the MAP team has 50%. the wild. Careful planning and monitoring increasingly worked with the provincial will be necessary with genetic variations in Forest Protection Department (FPD). In April 2009, a special three day training sub-populations and disease transmission Community meetings were held during workshop was held for 22 Quang Ngai needing consideration. The risk of collection October and December in Binh Son district FPD, environmental police and fisheries for released animals is also very real and where Mauremys annamensis have been seen department officers. Although focused awareness, protection and monitoring in local trade and good habitat remains. on Mauremys annamensis, other training activities running in conjunction with any included species identification, map release is needed. The FPD has shown an increased interest reading and information collection for field in TFT in the province since activities records. One new topic highlighting the started. In January 2009, the FPD mobile importance of cooperation and the roles

86 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE BUI DANG PHONG Mixed crate of turtles confiscated in Quang Ngai province in January 2009.

Key reintroduction phases include: transferred to the site will be given PIT tags communities will retain limited fishing to aid future monitoring. Initially some of rights to the area; fishing will be supervised • Repatriation the 140 animals already maintained by the using approved turtle-friendly techniques. A group of Mauremys annamensis from abroad TCC, mostly captive bred, will be transferred Additional local staff will be employed to would be returned to Vietnam and held for an followed by repatriated turtles in the future. work as sight wardens while bi-monthly additional quarantine and screening period at trapping at the site will monitor the secure the TCC where an experienced keeper team • Reintroductions turtle population. exists. Initially 100 animals will be received Reintroductions will be undertaken at a into two additional holding cages which will number of sites with varying degrees of • Secondary sites be constructed to accommodate these turtles. protection and monitoring. Awareness will Community wardens will be employed at the Media coverage will be significant for these be undertaken at all sites through community sites with weekly/fortnightly patrols made by first Vietnamese-American (VieKieu) turtles meetings, school programs, posters and sign the MAP team. Without fencing, animals returning home, highlighting the importance boards. will be allowed to disperse over a wider area. of the species and the overall need for TFT Monitoring will be difficult, but bi-monthly conservation in Vietnam. • Primary site trapping and possibility of radio telemetry This site will be monitored daily by local will be undertaken. • Captive holding and dispersal site MAP team with FPD involvement. An area In Quang Ngai province, a small breeding and of wetland will be established as a Mauremys • Tertiary sites holding facility will be established focusing Conservation Area (MCA). Land will be Mauremys annamensis will be released with on Mauremys annamensis. The facility will either allocated by local People’s Committee awareness activities in local communities and be managed through cooperation between or FPD, or rented/purchased. Management bi-monthly trapping. MAP and FPD with local staff trained in of the area will depend on the location with captive management techniques. All animals secure fencing a possible requirement. Local

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 87 HOANG VAN THAI Bui Dang Phong of the Turtle Conservation Centre (left) and Nguyen Chi Nhan of the MAP check the initial Interviewing local fishermen in the Thu Bon River. health of the animals.

Through monitoring these release sites and protection methods along with local trade we will determine the value of these methods for future use. The FPD and community involvement in releases will encourage greater community and enforcement agency support of TFT conservation, taking a step closer to a safe environment for Mauremys annamensis in central Vietnam.

The MAP is currently supported by Cleveland Metroparks Zoo (CMZ), the Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA) and Turtle Conservation Fund (TCF).

Timothy McCormack, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s Asian Turtle Program (ATP), PO Box 179 Hanoi Central Post Office, Hanoi, Vietnam HOANG VAN THAI [email protected] Quang Ngai FPD, environmental police and fisheries during the April 2009 training. Nguyen Chi Nhan, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s Asian Turtle Program (ATP), PO Box 179 Hanoi Central Post Office, Hanoi, Vietnam [email protected]

The TSA works strategically with the MAP, and will provide financial support for facility development and a source of captive-bred progeny to establish in situ breeding colonies as needed.

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TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 89 RANGE COUNTRY: Malaysia

A New Future for Turtle Conservation in Malaysia

Eng-Heng Chan and Rick Hudson

urtle conservation in Malaysia is set Tto enter a new and exciting era with the country’s current King, who is also the Sultan of Terengganu, giving the nod to the establishment of a turtle institute under his foundation – the Sultan Mizan Royal Foundation. The institute is the brainchild of Dr. Eng-Heng Chan who has been working closely with Tan Sri Dr. Salleh bin Mohd. Nor. Salleh, an eminent conservationist in Malaysia, is the Deputy Chairman of the Sultan Mizan Royal Foundation, President of the Malaysian Nature Society and Secretary- General of the Malaysian Academy of Sciences. The timing could not have been better for Chan who has just retired from the university.

The institute will be located in Setiu, the heartland of important nesting habitats for both Batagur affinis and B. borneoensis as well as Chelonia mydas. TSA has supported Chan’s work on B. affinis in the Setiu River where she ENGHENG CHAN has engaged local villagers in various aspects Chan and assistant Pelf processing terrapins caught in fishermen’s nets in the Setiu River. of the recovery program for the species.

Plans for the institute are ambitious. It will have multiple functions as a centre TSA has pledged support for the institute and for research, conservation, education and help to develop it into a world class center for conservation-tourism activities related the conservation of freshwater turtles. particularly to freshwater turtles in Malaysia. It will also serve as a rescue centre for turtles Recovery programs for both Batagur affinis confiscated from illegal trade. It is envisaged and B. borneoensis will be given a boost with that the institute will bring benefits to the the development of the Turtle Institute in local community in Setiu that has been Setiu. It will help to facilitate our plans to identified as one of the poorest districts in the expand work on the Setiu River and to concentrate our efforts there. This river country. is located about 60 km north of Kuala Terengganu, and runs parallel to the coastline Physical facilities for the institute will include for about 10 km before emptying into the an open-air hatchery, buildings to house South China Sea. The main nesting bank laboratories and offices, ponds and tanks for for B. affinis is located along this stretch of head-starting of freshwater turtles, ponds and the Setiu River, about 8 km from its mouth. other outdoor enclosures for rescued turtles, This river therefore offers an ideal site to breeding ponds for captive breeding work, continue needed conservation work, i.e. egg RICK HUDSON outdoor exhibits for interpretive purposes and protection, hatching, headstarting, release Antiquated facilities such as this one fail to provide housing for staff, visiting scientists, interns optimal environmental conditions for Batagur and and monitoring of released B. affinis and volunteers. should be replaced.

90 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE RICK HUDSON Batagur nesting beaches in Setiu. ENGHENG CHAN RICK HUDSON Rescue operation carried out in April 2007 that involved a total of 68 endangered freshwater turtles. Dr. Engheng Chan (right) with her river terrapin research team, students Pelf Nyok Chen and Chang Kew Fong.

The Setiu River is interesting in that wild basic science of egg incubation, TSD and populations of both Batagur affinis and B. reintroduction technology has been lacking. borneoensis are found here, presenting an We will also help upgrade physical facilities excellent opportunity to better understand how in existing Batagur headstarting programs to two such similar species co-exist in the same improve rearing conditions for the terrapins. habitat. According to available information, the Setiu River is home to the largest population Illegal trade in turtles in Malaysia is still of B. borneoensis in Malaysia and possibly rampant. In February 2009, with Chan’s help, throughout its range. A recent project initiated we visited a facility which held 10 - 12 adult by Chan in the Setiu River has processed a total Manouria emys, remnants of a 15 ton shipment of 90 individuals of wild caught B. borneoensis that had been recently sent to China. In April ranging in weight from 320 gm to 17.8 kg 2007, Chan organized a rescue operation at the between February and June 2009, with seven same facility in which a Buddhist Group bought recaptures within the same period. 7 individuals of Chitra chitra, 25 Pelochelys cantori, 13 Manouria emys, 3 B. borneoensis and The TSA has supported Chan’s research with 20 Amyda cartilaginea for release into a private both Batagur affinis and B. borneoensis over pond. This demonstrates the urgent need for the years and the time has come to begin a rescue center to be developed in Malaysia and implementing the results into management we are excited that this could soon be a reality ENGHENG CHAN Village children in Setiu are keen participants in the strategies of the various Batagur headstarting under the Turtle Conservation Center. river terrapin recovery program. programs throughout Malaysia where the

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 91 RICK HUDSON A male Batagur affinis in breeding coloration. We are now planning to hold a Batagur workshop in 2010 and Terengganu in Malaysia will be the most logical venue. It will be held in February or March to coincide with the nesting season for Batagur. Range countries are expected to prepare recovery plans for presentation. The workshop will present an ideal opportunity to launch plans to develop a model Batagur breeding and headstarting program at the government- run Terrapin Conservation Center at Bukit Paloh, Terengganu. Space for new construction is available and the facility is situated very close to the Terengganu River with a major Batagur nesting population – 99 nests in 2008. The TSA intends to mobilize support for this facility in the hopes that it will provide a model for other Batagur operations to follow. This model will take an eco-physiologic approach to husbandry, providing deep water for thermoregulation, adequate nesting beaches and improved opportunities for basking. Water circulation, biological filtration and the ability to grow RICK HUDSON food plants will be incorporated into the University of Terengganu student Nurul holds a painted terrapin (B. borneoensis) captured in a fishermen’s net (Ropi in background) on the Seitu River. Nurul is working on head-starting techniques of painted plans and a TSA team will visit Malaysia to terrapins. begin the design process in September 2009.

92 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE RICK HUDSON Manouria emys at a commercial turtle operation in Malaysia; these are all that remain of a 15 ton shipment of M. emys that went to China for the New Year.

Malaysia: Critical Crossroads that Malaysia is an important nexus for The TSA began supporting Dr. Chan’s work on Rick Hudson the wildlife trade, the potential exists the Setiu River in 2005, and works collaboratively to develop rescue and captive breeding with her to coordinate a range-wide Batagur conservation program. A TSA team will begin Though Malaysia has no endemic centers for priority species confiscated designing new turtle facilities in Malaysia in chelonians, it is still a highly important from the illegal trade. Finally, given the September 2009. country for turtle conservation in Asia, number of high priority freshwater turtle ranking eighth in terms of species species in Malaysia, and its strategic richness with 18 species, and ranking location in the region, the TSA believes ninth overall when threat factors are that turtle conservation activities should We're Serious About Saving Turtles considered. The long-running State- be expanded in accordance with need. operated Batagur facilities, combined with a rich history of turtle conservation work and a good university system provide Malaysia with the capacity and Eng-Heng Chan infrastructure to play a leading role [email protected] in Asian turtle conservation. Malaysia Postal address: 56-2/1, Pangsapuri is home to a number of chelonian Cerong Lanjut, Jalan Cerong Lanjut, species ranked Critically Endangered 20300 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu or Endangered by the IUCN Red List including Chitra chitra, B. affinis, B. borneoensis, Pelochelys cantori, Manouria Rick Hudson emys and Orlitia borneoensis, all of which [email protected] TURTLETSA SURVIVAL ALLIANCE are a high priority for TSA program President, Turtle Survival Alliance development. Furthermore, considering www.TurtleSurvival.org

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 93 RANGE COUNTRY: Cambodia

Batagur Headstarting Facility at Maximum Capacity

Heng Sovannara and Mark Gately

here was good news recently for a rare Tspecies of River Terrapin (Batagur baska, now re-classified as Batagur affinis) in the Sre Ambel area of Cambodia’s coastal region, with the successful hatching of 23 eggs on a beach in the Sre Ambel River.

The Fisheries Administration and WCS have been working with communities in the Sre Ambel area since 1999, conserving the Batagur through the implementation of a variety of conservation interventions. These interventions are targeted to protect in situ populations of Batagur, through guarding nesting beaches and adjoining sections of river throughout the nesting and incubation seasons, and implementing patrols in remaining habitat. These activities are complemented by an ex situ conservation

hatchling center. BRIAN HORNE This huge female Cambodian Batagur is being held in a private facility until she can be integrated into The in situ project activities are based a breeding program. Too valuable to release, her full genetic potential can best be maximized through captive breeding. around the two remaining rivers where the animals occur. One team comprised of three conservation personnel work along the Sre Ambel River and another team of four concentrate on the Kaong River. Both groups are coordinated by Mr. Yen That, from the Sre Ambel Fisheries, Koh Kong province. The focus of activities is the protection of the Batagur nests and during the nesting season the conservation teams attempt to locate all nests along each river. They then construct enclosures around the nests to provide protection against predators.

The 2009 nesting beach was first identified in March, after project patrol staff found several Batagur tracks on the beach, and subsequently found 23 eggs buried in the sand. The beach was then guarded around the clock by project staff for two months, until the eggs hatched in early May. The hatchlings were relocated to the hatchling center, where they will be housed in small plastic tubs for the next six months, until they are large enough to BRIAN HORNE be introduced to one of the center’s larger Batagur nest excavation on the Sre Ambel. This nest contained 23 eggs, all of which hatched and were concrete holding pens. collected for headstarting.

94 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE RICK HUDSON RICK HUDSON Brian Horne and Tim McCormack doing a head WCS veterinarian Priscilla Joyner, Tim McCormack and Brian Horne assess the condition of a juvenile count of Batagur at the headstarting facility at Sre Batagur in the headstarting facility at Sre Ambel, Cambodia. Ambel, Cambodia.

There are currently 115 animals being held are currently being finalized to improve the This includes an expert appraisal of the at the facility, 46 hatchlings from 2006, 46 center with a new solar water pump, increased ecological requirements of the hatchlings hatchlings from 2007, plus the 23 recent water storage capacity and additional holding and the suitability of the habitat within the arrivals. The center is staffed by a dedicated facilities, with the latter now particularly Sre Ambel and surrounding river systems, team that ensure that fresh food is provided important given the recent arrival of the as well as an assessment of the existing and for the hatchlings on a daily basis and 2009 hatchlings. future threats to wild Batagur in these river the facility is enclosed in a metal fence to systems. A number of boat surveys were prevent theft. The animals eat primarily Given the increasing threats to wild conducted in late 2008 and early 2009, firstly morning glory (Ipomea), with the addition Batagur in the Sre Ambel river system, it is by a team of ecologists who were conducting of mangrove fruits from the Sre Ambel river now more important than ever to ensure surveys throughout southwest Cambodia system during the fruiting season. All the that there is an appropriate release plan and secondly by Batagur experts including hatchlings have been micro-chipped. Plans in place for the hatchlings at the center. Brian Horne. These surveys assessed both the quality and suitability of habitat in the area, as well as the threat posed by future economic developments, such as hydropower dams. It is hoped that information obtained from these surveys will facilitate the formulation of a release strategy in the near future.

Heng Sovannara and Mark Gately [email protected] Fisheries Administration, Royal Government of Cambodia Wildlife Conservation Society

The TSA currently provides both logistical and technical support to the Batagur headstarting operation in Sre Ambel, and funded (with EAZA Shellshock and the Batchelor Foundation) the construction of the headstarting facility in 2006. BRIAN HORNE Heng Sovannara and a WCS boatman remove a hook line during river surveys in February 2009, illustrating the increasing threat that turtles face as human populations expand.

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 95 RANGE COUNTRY: Philippines

A range country assurance colony for the Philippine Forest Turtle

Sabine Schoppe and Nimal Fernando

atala Foundation Incorporated (KFI) Kis a Palawan-based NGO working on the conservation of threatened native species. The Katala Institute for Ecology and Biodiversity Conservation (KIEBC), one of several centers / projects managed by KFI, is located in Antipuluan, Narra, Palawan. It is here that the only range country assurance colony of the Palawan endemic and critically endangered Philippine Forest Turtle (Siebenrockiella leytensis) is held. One of the three major objectives of KIEBC is to develop procedures for rescue, conservation breeding, habitat restoration and eventually reintroduction of selected rare species from Palawan, like the Philippine Cockatoo (Cacatua haematuropygia) and the Philippine Forest Turtle. In 2006, KFI and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Protected Area and

Wildlife Bureau (DENR-PAWB) signed DIVERLIE ACOSTA a Memorandum of Agreement for the Nimal Fernando, Sabine Schoppe and two caretaker assistants examining a group of S. leytensis. Philippine Freshwater Turtle Conservation Program (PFTCP). In this framework, and problems. Given the limited laboratory leaching, with resultant high pH elevations, with the generous financial support of the facilities, medical supplies and freshwater were identified as an immediate concern. European Association of Zoos and Aquaria turtle expertise of veterinarians in the area, KFI will be looking at alternative liners and (EAZA) through the Shellshock Campaign, the KFI approached the Turtle Survival substrates in the future, as well as methods of KFI built facilities to hold an assurance Alliance (TSA) for technical assistance. A naturally acidifying the water. colony of S. leytensis in early 2007. In July TSA veterinary member – Nimal Fernando 2007, 40 S. leytensis, which had been held in - arrived within a month to assist with Aggression was also identified as a major an over-crowded pond at a local rescue center the problem. Also attending the trip were concern and the turtles were spread over as since a 2005 confiscation, were transferred to Rainier Manalo (Conservation International many enclosures as possible. However, it has the new facility. Since then, health status and - Palawan) who has experience in pond been impossible to separate them individually husbandry conditions were closely monitored filtering systems, Salvador Guion (PWRCC given space constraints. Aggression was in collaboration with veterinarians from the Keeper), Siegfred Diaz Field (Operations observed in newly mixed turtles almost Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Coordinator of KFI) and Diverlie Acosta immediately, and extra ‘furniture’ like logs, Center (PWRCC), the DENR-PAWB, (KFI Keeper). etc have been placed in the ponds to try and the Philippine Association of Wildlife and remedy this. To address the plantar Veterinaries Incorporated (PAWVI), and The assessment started with an overview of ulcerations, pebbles have been placed in the the Provincial and Municipal Office of the the tanks, ponds, water quality and general smaller pools to cover the concrete substrate. DENR. Water samples and analysis had been husbandry. The center is located in an area Later that day, health assessment of all the S. conducted at regular intervals and the results that is essentially a flood plain and the nearby leytensis commenced. Overall, this appears were sent to relevant agencies. coastline is dominated by mangroves and soft to be a tough species and relatively easy to bottoms along a shallow intertidal zone. The examine as they are quite “outgoing”. Several In May 2009, several individuals became water table of the property is high. During turtles had successfully completed treatment affected by shell rot. Heavy rain, resultant this trip – in the middle of the rainy season - for shell rot; however, five of these now flooding and water quality issues were we had to walk through about 800 m of mud appeared to be affected by pneumonia. A suspected to be contributing to the health to reach the center. Concrete breakdown and few new shell lesions were found and many

96 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE turtles had ulcerative skin lesions around the of groundwater contamination is needed. Thanks in particular to Kevin Buley, tail / perineum or on the plantar surface of Aggression needs to be monitored as this Shellshock Campaign Organizer and Curator the hind feet. Two turtles were found to have is also probably impacting on the turtles in of Lower Vertebrates and Invertebrates at subcutaneous abscesses, one around the knee terms of social stress. The turtles are now on Chester Zoo, UK for providing the starting and the other under the lower mandible. a treatment course that will need to be re- capital to put up the turtle facilities at Both were curetted, flushed then packed with evaluated in a few weeks. At this stage, the KIEBC. We also would like to acknowledge a debriding ointment, to be changed to an turtles appear strong, retain good appetites the Turtle Conservation Fund for supporting antibiotic ointment after about a week. All and are expected to respond to treatment KFI’s research on the species in the wild that turtles showing either respiratory symptoms, well. Underlying husbandry and water quality is providing important information on its moderate to severe skin ulceration or shell rot issues are most likely impacting negatively on biology and ecology. NIMAL FERNANDO SABINE SCHOPPE Sabine Schoppe, Project Director for the Philippine Freshwater Turtle Conservation Program at one of the Nimal instructs Diverlie Acosta on administering S. leytensis captive enclosures. fluids to a S. leytensis. or abscesses were placed on injectable Fortum their health problems and once resolved we (Ceftazidine), and turtles with shell rot / are positive that in the near future KIEBC Sabine Schoppe skin ulceration placed on Acriflavin baths. will have its first captive bred S. leytensis. Project Director Swabs for bacteriology assessment were taken Philippine Freshwater Turtle from several shell wounds and abscesses. Acknowledgements Conservation Program (PFTCP) All individuals were eating and appeared We would like to thank the TSA, especially Katala Foundation Incorporated (KFI) strong. Half of the colony did not show any Rick Hudson, for the quick response and PO Box 390 symptoms at all. assistance and for sponsoring the veterinary Puerto Princesa City visit. Further, we would like to thank the PH-5300 Palawan, Philippines During the examination, KFI staff was trained management of Ocean Park Corporation [email protected] in identifying health problems, examination for also partially funding the visit and the and restraint of turtles and Diverlie Acosta generous donation of medication. Thanks Nimal Fernando (Turtle Keeper) was taught how to inject also to KFI’s principal sponsors and partner Senior Veterinarian fluids and antibiotics. donors: Loro Parque Fundacion (LPF) Ocean Park Corporation Zoological Society for the Conservation of Aberdeen, Hong Kong Conclusions Species and Populations (ZGAP), Chester [email protected] There is a concern that the concrete quality Zoological Gardens, and Conservation des and breakdown is creating problems in water Espèces et des Populations Animales (CEPA). quality that is detrimental to the health of S. Thanks to the Department of Environment leytensis but not to the other freshwater turtle and Natural Resources – Protected Area The TSA has supported fieldwork for S. leytenis species held at the center. Source water is Wildlife Bureau for sharing our common with Seed Grants in the past but this our first interaction with the captive population. We look high in pH but compounded by the concrete concern for the conservation of threatened forward to becoming increasingly involved with leaching, as evidenced by the alkalinity / species. Thanks to the Shellshock Turtle this important program. hardness levels. The link to the heavy rainfall and Tortoise Conservation Campaign of the is still tenuous, and further investigation Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA).

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 97 MEDICAL TURTLETSA SURVIVAL ALLIANCE

Health Assessment of the Chelonian Reproductive Tract

Sam Rivera, DVM, MS, Dipl ABVP

he reproduction of captive chelonians Thas increased significantly over the last few decades. Attention to the disorders of the reproductive tract is essential for proper health care when encountering reproductive failure of unknown origin. The chelonian reproductive cycle in the wild is controlled by multiple factors including proper day length, environmental temperature, humidity and an optimal plane of nutrition. These factors combined with the presence of a suitable habitat play a vital role in the reproductive success of chelonians in the wild. It is difficult to provide an ideal environment, which resembles natural conditions, in captivity. A basic understanding of the species natural history is important not only to design a treatment plan, but also to establish preventive measures aimed at decreasing the incidence of reproductive tract disease.

The diagnosis of reproductive tract disease can prove challenging in chelonians. Generally, STEPHANIE SCANLIN females gain significant weight when gravid. In some chelonians the calcified eggs can Overcalcified eggs in the oviduct of aDipsochelys elephantina. Notice the irregular shell and two of be palpated through the femoral fossa. the eggs are adhering to each other. The diagnosis of reproductive tract disease is based on the collection of a thorough history, physical exam findings, laboratory they may not show clinical signs associated thorough diagnostic work up is required tests, radiography, ultrasonography, and/or with the prolonged presence of eggs within before pursuing treatment options. endoscopy. the oviduct. Radiographs are important when assessing number, integrity, and degree of calcification Common diseases of the chelonian Causes of egg retention or dystocia include of the eggs. Ultrasonography and endoscopy reproductive tract include egg retention, inadequate husbandry (lack of proper nesting can also provide valuable information and dystocia, egg yolk coelomitis, and penile site), malnutrition, obesity, misshapen eggs, help identify underlying disease that may be prolapse. Egg retention is defined as failure dehydration, urolithiasis, cloacoliths, egg leading to the dystocia. to lay eggs as expected, based on breeding yolk coelomitis, ectopic eggs, fecal impaction, history. Dystocia refers to difficulty in intestinal foreign body, granuloma/abscess Egg-yolk coelomitis is caused by leakage oviposition secondary to internal or external within the oviduct, or neoplasia. Clinical of yolk material, from a ruptured follicle factors which can be environmental or signs are non-specific and vary from no overt or egg, into the coelomic cavity. The yolk pathologic. Many chelonian species will clinical signs to anorexia, lethargy, dyspnea, material in the coelomic cavity can incite a produce infertile eggs in captivity and may edema of the extremities, cloacal discharge, moderate to severe inflammatory response not lay them, making oviposition disorders straining, cloacal prolapse, and abnormal which if untreated often leads to death. This common in captive animals. These conditions ambulation (particularly in aquatic turtles). is one of the most common diseases of the are hardest to diagnose, with certainty, in reproductive tract leading to death. Clinical chelonians because many species can hold Diagnosis of egg retention or dystocia signs associated with egg-yolk coelomitis the eggs in the oviduct if conditions for requires close evaluation of the patient’s include anorexia, lethargy, diarrhea, lack oviposition are not favorable. Furthermore, husbandry and reproductive history. A of fecal output, and pain upon coelomic

98 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE STEPHANIE SCANLIN SAM RIVERA

Healthy gravid Manouria impressa Prolapsed penis in a Centrochelys sulcata

palpation. A definitive diagnosis can be prolapse. In some cases treatment requires made by ultrasonographic identification penile amputation which, in chelonians, will of fluid in the coelom, aspiration and end the reproductive potential of the animal. analysis of the material, or by endoscopy. Treatment involves surgery and in many cases The captive reproduction of chelonians will Sam Rivera, DVM, MS, Dipl ABVP ovariectomy may be required. continue to increase in the future. Special [email protected] attention to all the factors associated with Associate Veterinarian Penile prolapse is relatively common in the overall health of animals in captivity Department of Veterinary Services chelonians. Abnormal prolapse is usually will be of utmost importance for all those Zoo Atlanta a secondary condition. During copulation involved in their care. As outlined in this 800 Cherokee Avenue, SE the prolapsed penis can suffer from trauma article, the reproductive tract of chelonians Atlanta, Georgia, 30315 leading to edema and inflammation, resulting is often associated with significant morbidity in prolonged exposure and further damage and mortality in the captive environment. and necrosis. Other etiologies include Whereas some conditions, such as egg yolk excessive straining secondary to gastro- peritonitis, carry a poor prognosis, most intestinal disease (impaction, parasites), disorders of the chelonian reproductive urolithiasis, and nutritional secondary tract carry a favorable prognosis if treated hyperparathyroidism. Trauma to the distal promptly. spinal column leading to nerve damage or cloacal trauma can also lead to penile

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 99 BEHLER TURTLE CONSERVATION AWARD TURTLETSA SURVIVAL ALLIANCE

Gerald Kuchling Receives the 2009 Behler Turtle Conservation Award

Rick Hudson and Heather Lowe

he Turtle Survival Alliance and the from less than 50 animals to more than 300. freshwater turtle trade between Myanmar TIUCN/SSC Tortoise and Freshwater Dr. Kuchling and his wife also co-authored and China. He has worked on Roti Island Turtle Specialist Group are pleased to two children’s books featuring the western snakenecks (Chelodina mccordi) in Indonesia, announce that the 2009 Behler Award is swamp turtle, with the hopes of inspiring giant softshell turtles (Chitra chitra) in presented to Dr. Gerald Kuchling. It would be future generations to continue to care for this Thailand, tortoises in South Africa, river altogether inappropriate to have a meaningful imperiled species. terrapins (Batagur affinis) in Malaysia, Desert discussion about chelonian conservation tortoises in California, and most recently programs without prominently mentioning In Madagascar, he brought the critical he led the effort to rescue the Yangtze giant Gerald. His name has more or less become situation of the Madagascan big-headed softshell turtle (Rafetus swinhoei) in China synonymous with turtle conservation and turtle (Erymnoclelys madagascariensis) to our from extinction. As this announcement is he will forever be linked being written, eggs from the with the recovery of some last pair of Rafetus in China of the world’s rarest and are incubating at Suzhou Zoo. most endangered chelonians. Looking down the road, it Approaching problems with a would be altogether fitting if strong background in science, Gerald’s receiving this award combined with a healthy dose coincided with the successful of common sense, Gerald’s hatching of these eggs. In perspective on dealing with what would be perhaps the turtle conservation issues is most significant event in the always analytical and well history of turtle conservation, reasoned. He is unusual in hatching Rafetus would be the that he manages to blend crown jewel in a remarkable strong academic credentials set of achievements that have with a genuine appreciation marked Dr. Kuchling’s career. of husbandry techniques, and the result is a very practical The Turtle Survival Alliance application of science to Dr. Kuchling performs an ultrasound exam on the female Rafetus to determine and the IUCN/SSC reproductive status. Photo by Qi Zhenglin conservation problems, Tortoise and Freshwater especially those with a captive Turtle Specialist Group component. According to TSA President attention in the early 1990’s. He also worked (TFTSG) established the John Behler Turtle Rick Hudson “If you have to go to battle on the ploughshare tortoise (Astrochelys Conservation Award in 2006, a major annual to save a turtle on the brink of extinction, yniphora), studying their reproductive cycle. award presented jointly by these groups to you definitely want Gerald Kuchling on your He is widely regarded as the world’s foremost honor leadership and excellence in the field side.” authority on chelonian reproductive of turtle and tortoise conservation. The physiology and pioneered the use of award honors the memory of John Behler, He is best known for leading the recovery endoscopy for sex determination in turtles. previous Chair of the TFTSG and Curator effort for one of the world’s most endangered In 1999, he published the definitive book on of Herpetology at the Bronx Zoo, Wildlife species – the western swamp turtle this topic, The Reproductive Biology of the Conservation Society. The Award includes (Pseudemydura umbrina). Moving from Chelonia. an honorarium of $3,000, and co-sponsors their native Austria to Western Australia in this year include the Chelonian Research 1987, Gerald and his wife Guundie have In Burma, he is credited with the rediscovery of Foundation, Conservation International, dedicated their lives to this species, once one of the world’s rarest and most endangered Chelonian Research Institute, Behler believed to be extinct. Dr. Kuchling launched freshwater turtles, the Burmese roofed turtle Chelonian Center, World Chelonian Trust, a recovery program in 1988 that originated (Batagur trivattata), establishing the first Wildlife Conservation Society, Deborah with a captive colony of just 25 animals. A captive breeding group for this species. His Behler and Brett and Nancy Stearns. reintroduction component was added in 1990’s market surveys in Yunnan Province 1994 that has boosted the wild population provided much insight into the extent of the

100 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE TURTLETSA SURVIVAL ALLIANCE

Thank you for your support!

The TSA gratefully acknowledges the following supporters for their support over the past year (July 2008-July 2009):

Supporters donating $200 - $499 Brian Bolton, Rebecca Christoffel, Orlando Diaz-Figueroa, Indian River Insulation, John Iverson, Thomas Jacoby, Robert Krause, Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, Dan Pearson, Peter Reed, Lisa Weiss

Supporters donating $500 to $2499 Cleveland Metroparks AAZK, Como Zoo Friends, Alessandro Fornetti, Jacksonville Zoo, Los Angeles Zoo, Michigan Herp Society, Sedgwick County Zoo, Bruce Shapiro, Woodland Park Zoo

Supporters donating $2500 to $5000 Columbus Zoo, Detroit Zoological Society, Fort Worth Zoo, Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden, San Diego Zoo, David Shapiro

Supporters donating $7,500 to $19,999 Behler Chelonian Center, British Chelonia Group, Walter Sedgwick, Taste of Thai, Walde Research & Environmental Consulting

Supporters donating $20,000 or more Beneficia Foundation, Nature’s Own, Pat Koval/WWF Canada

2009 Conference Sponsors Conservation International, Chelonian Research Foundation (Student Speaker Awards), ZooMed, Brett and Nancy Stearns

2009 Behler Award Sponsors Conservation International, Chelonian Research Foundation, Chelonian Research Institute, Behler Chelonian Center, Deborah Behler, World Chelonian Trust, Brett and Nancy Stearns, Wildlife Conservation Society

Special thanks to Sheena Koeth and Taste of Thai who sold merchandise on the behalf of the TSA, resulting in more than $6,000 (combined) in funds raised for turtle conservation.

TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 101 102 AUGUST 2009 TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL REPTILE CONSERVATION FOUNDATION, INC. 3010 MAGNUM DRIVE, SAN JOSE, CA 95135 TEL 877-472-3674

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TURTLE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE AUGUST 2009 103 Publication Supported by:

The Setiu River in Malaysia supports both Batagur affinis and B. borneoensis (pictured here) and will be the focal point of an expanded TSA fund-raising campaign, to be launched soon. Malaysia supports a diversity of large river turtles that are in need of urgent conservation measures (see story page

90). BRIAN D. HORNE

104