More than half of Asia's 90 species of tortoises and freshwater turtles are endangered.
Turtles and tortoises have been around since the time of the dinosaur. Today, over half of the world’s species are threatened with extinction. Nearly 1/3 of all freshwater turtle and tortoise species are found in Asia and are threatened by large-scale, unsustainable trade for sale in food markets and traditional medicine.
WHAT WE'RE DOING
The primary goal of Zoo’s Asian Turtle Program (ATP) program is to safeguard priority globally threatened tortoise and freshwater turtle species in Indochina. Working in collaboration with Indo-Myanmar Conservation and Education for Nature - Vietnam (ENV), the ATP implements strategic interventions that directly contribute to the conservation of Asian turtles in the region. Programs mitigate major threats and include a wide range of conservation, education and related activities that strengthen law enforcement and foster local and regional conservation leadership.
Protecting Turtles and Addressing Turtle Trade
- ATP addresses the turtle trade by encouraging and facilitating reporting of illegal activity, supporting law enforcement and confiscation efforts, and assisting turtle conservation centers in the rescue and management of confiscated turtles. Seizures, confiscations and voluntary surrenders of protected tortoises and freshwater turtles have significantly increased as a result of ATPs collaborative efforts and law enforcement training in the region.
Building Conservation Capacity and Awareness in Vietnam
- Public education programs, awareness campaigns and community activities focus on the value and importance of protecting Vietnam’s turtles. University student workshops and internships train the next generation of young turtle scientists and professionals in Vietnam. Community education and awareness events and activities in 4 provinces have engaged thousands of community members, and hundreds of young men have participated in community football matches focused around turtle awareness.
Conducting Species-Based Research and Conservation Initiatives
- Activities focus on conservation programs for more than a dozen endangered species, including the legendary Rafetus or Swinhoe’s soft-shell turtle, the most endangered turtle species in the world. Key habitat areas are being protected, including a first-of-its-kind Species Habitat Conservation Area for the critically endangered Vietnamese pond turtle.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
- You can make a difference for Asian turtles and help us Stop Wildlife Trafficking by being a responsible consumer. Never buy wildlife or products made from protected wildlife or their parts - or support vendors who sell them. Encourage others to do the same. Learn more at #BuyInformed.
- Learn more about how you can take action and make a difference for Asian turtles and other wildlife.
PARTNERS
