News & Events

Turtle of the Week: Big-headed Turtle

This species is part of our ex-situ breeding program at the Turtle Survival Center, where we maintain an assurance colony with hopes for a future where these Big-headed Turtles can be released back into the wild. The program has had incredible reproductive success for a species that is historically known to be difficult to breed in captivity.

Turtle Survival Alliance has also participated in efforts to combat wildlife trafficking for the Big-headed Turtle, as well as confiscation rescue, and rehabilitation.

We work with partners, such as Wildlife Conservation Society and the Prospect Park Zoo, who are also committed to saving this species from extinction!

• Pictured: Big-headed Turtle (Platysternon megacephalum)
• Countries of Origin: Cambodia, China, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam
• Habitat: Steep, clearwater, cascading hill streams
• Wild Population: Decreasing; now rare throughout its range
• IUCN Red List Status: Critically Endangered
• Threats: Habitat destruction, degradation, and alteration; collection for the pet trade