Madagascar Big-headed Turtle

Erymnochelys madagascariensis

Conservation Status

Critically Endangered

Reptilia · Podocnemididae

About

The Madagascan big-headed turtle is a turtle native to the waters of permanent slow moving rivers and lakes in western Madagascar. These turtles are critically endangered and have been evaluated to be the most endangered turtle in the world by a 2018 review. Due to its ancient origins and threatened status, it is ranked as #1 on the EDGE of Existence programme's list of priority reptiles.

Fun Fact

A captive breeding program has also been started to prevent the species from becoming extinct.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Large areas with freshwater such as permanent slow streaming rivers

Diet

Carnivore

Lifespan

To be updated

Threats

Habitat Destruction
Pollution
Invasive Species
Over-Collection
Climate Change

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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