First Black Marsh Turtle Hatched in Cambodia

The first Black Marsh Turtle hatched in captivity in Cambodia is being nurtured by conservationists at the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB) until it can be released into the wild. The baby turtle, hatched in May, is a critical step towards rebuilding the endangered reptile's population.

The first Black Marsh Turtle hatched in captivity in Cambodia is under the careful watch of conservationists, who aim to release it back into the wild to boost the population of the endangered reptile.

The tiny turtle hatched in late May at the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB) after its parents were rescued from the black market. The turtle, now 6 cm long and weighing 40 grams, will stay in the sanctuary until it grows big enough to be less vulnerable to predators, according to ACCB country director Christel Griffioen.

Griffioen mentioned the turtle might take four to six years to be ready for re-introduction into the wild. Trackers will likely be used to follow the animal and learn more about the species' ecology. The population of Black Marsh Turtles, native to Southeast Asia, is currently threatened by habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade.

(With inputs from agencies.)