RED-CROWNED ROOFED TURTLE
Batagur kachuga
DESCRIPTION
The Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle (Batagur kachuga) is a large freshwater turtle known for its distinctive red crown and domed shell. It is primarily found in riverine habitats and is considered critically endangered due to habitat loss and poaching.
FUN FACTS
- The Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle is known for its unique nesting behavior, where females travel long distances to find suitable nesting sites | It is one of the few turtle species that can tolerate brackish water | Conservation efforts are critical for its survival due to its limited range and declining numbers
QUICK INFO
Lifespan20-30 years in the wild
Average Weight10-15 kg
Average Length50-70 cm
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social StructureSolitary, with occasional group basking
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- Red-Crowned Roofed Turtles inhabit freshwater rivers, lakes, and wetlands. They prefer areas with abundant vegetation and sandy or muddy substrates for nesting.
- Biomes
- Freshwater, Wetlands
- Native Range
- The species is native to the Indian subcontinent, particularly in the river systems of India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- India, Bangladesh, Myanmar
- Diet
- This species is primarily herbivorous, feeding on aquatic plants, fruits, and occasionally small invertebrates. It plays a crucial role in its ecosystem by helping to maintain the health of aquatic vegetation.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- Aquatic plants, fruits
- Social Structure
- Solitary, with occasional group basking
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-5
- Territorial
- 0
VU
10-15 kg
Weight
50-70 cm
Length
- Coloration
- The shell is typically olive to brown with a distinctive red or orange crown on the head.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are generally smaller than females and have a more elongated tail.
- Lifespan
- 20-30 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-20
- Sexual Maturity
- 5-7 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer
CR
Critically Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is declining due to habitat destruction and illegal trade.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Less than 1,000 individuals
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat loss due to dam construction and pollution, as well as poaching for the pet trade and traditional medicine.
- Conservation Program
- Various local conservation efforts are in place, including habitat restoration and protection measures.
- Predators
- Large birds of prey and mammals may prey on eggs and hatchlings.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can retract into their shells for protection.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon