Turtles declining in Tarai wetlands
Summary
Turtle populations are declining in the Tarai and Chure wetlands as habitat loss, pollution, hunting and fishing practices increasingly threaten their survival. Conservationists say protecting turtles requires safeguarding wetlands, riverbanks and surrounding vegetation, with local community participation seen as essential.
Key Points
- Turtle numbers in the Tarai’s rivers, ponds and wetlands are falling as habitats are destroyed by human activities.
- Threats include encroachment, habitat fragmentation, illegal hunting, fishing nets, poison, electric current, roads and pollution.
- Researchers say turtle conservation must focus on protecting wetlands, riverbanks, nesting areas and vegetation, not just the species itself.
- Conservationists call for stronger community participation and expansion of conservation programmes beyond the Koshi Tappu area.
