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Why Turtles?

Found around the world in rivers, deserts, jungles, and our own backyards, it’s easy to assume tortoises and freshwater turtles will always be here. But the very traits that once helped them survive render them vulnerable to extinction today.
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Protecting the world’s most endangered tortoises and freshwater turtles

We All Play a Role.

To save turtles, we all play a role. Every day, tortoises and freshwater turtles around the globe face pressing threats. Your support equips us to support species where and how they need us most.

Turtles are ancient and remarkable creatures who deserve a champion. When you stand with us, you help ensure their continued survival. Together, we can create a world with zero turtle extinctions.

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News & Events

Species Spotlight: Rote Island Snake-necked Turtle

  • September 10, 2024

Meet the unique Rote Island Snake-necked Turtle!

This funky turtle is striking to all who see it, thanks to its unique, snake-like neck that extends far beyond its body and is almost as long as the shell itself! These turtles evolved a serpentine neck to aid them in hunting and striking at small prey items like amphibians, crustaceans, fish, and insects.

The Rote Island Snake-necked Turtle is divided into two subspecies, the Rote Island Snake-necked Turtle (Chelodina mccordi mccordi) and Timor-Leste Snake-necked Turtle (Chelodina mccordi timorensis).

A Rote Island Snake-necked Turtle hatchling at the Turtle Survival Center. Photo by Cris Hagen.

The Rote subspecies is found in Indonesia, specifically on its namesake Rote Island, a tiny island just 310 miles (500 km) north of Australia. Sadly, this turtle is presumed extinct in the wild due to habitat destruction, collection for the pet trade, and the introduction of predatory fish. At our Turtle Survival Center, we host a genetically diverse assurance colony of the Rote Island Snake-necked Turtles to help ensure its future existence. Since 2019, we have produced 63 hatchlings, including ten this year!

You can help support our operations at the TSC by donating or becoming a member today!

  • Pictured: Rote Island Snake-necked Turtle (Chelodina mccordi mccordi)
  • Countries of Origin: Indonesia (Rote Island)
  • Habitat: Small, shallow lakes, swamps, marshes, and rice paddies
  • Wild Population: Presumed extinct in the wild; estimated population reduction greater than 99%
  • IUCN Red List Status: Critically Endangered
  • Threats: Habitat destruction, alteration, and conversion; collection for the pet trade; pollution; introduced predatory fish
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