Rare giant turtle found in Mekong - BBC

[Eugene]

Source: BBC News

Last Updated: Wednesday, 16 May 2007, 15:59 GMT 16:59 UK

Rare giant turtle found in Mekong

One of the world's largest turtles, said to be on the brink of extinction, has
been found in abundance in a former Khmer Rouge stronghold in Cambodia.

Conservationists discovered an 11kg (24lb) female Cantor's giant soft-shell
turtle and a nesting ground during a survey of the country's Mekong River.

The species, which can grow two metres (6ft) long and weigh 50kg (110lb)
was last spotted in Cambodia in 2003.

Scientists say the find could help save it from disappearing off the planet.

-snip-

Rubbery skin

"We thought it might be almost gone but found it in abundance in this one
pristine stretch of the Mekong, making the area the world's most important
site for saving this particular species," David Emmett, a CI biologist said.

-snip-

Read more: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/6662589.stm

[CottonBear]

1. Wow! This is an awesome turtle! Check out this picture:

...snip...

The species has a rubbery skin and a powerful bite, with jaws strong enough to crush bone.

It spends most of its time hidden in sand with only its eyes or nose showing.

The hatchlings were released along with an adult turtle

Mr Emmett said the turtle could extend its neck with lightning speed.

"It has the fastest strike of any animal I've ever seen, including cobras."

more...

:wow:

[Javaman]

2. How long till the locals there eat it to extinction? nt