Asian giant tortoise

The critically endangered Asian giant tortoise has been successfully reintroduced into the Zeliang Community Reserve in Nagaland’s Peren district. Ten tortoises from the Nagaland Zoological Park were released on August 2 through a community event.

About the Asian Giant Tortoise

• Conservation Status: The Asian giant tortoise (Manouria emys) is the largest tortoise in mainland Asia and is listed as critically endangered. It had been nearly wiped out from Nagaland over a decade ago.
• Ecological Role: This species, often called the “small elephant of the forests,” plays a crucial role in the ecosystem. It aids in seed dispersal and forest regeneration and helps keep the forest floor clean through its scavenging habits.

(Source: TH)