The Pig-nosed Turtle (Carettochelys insculpta) is the last surviving species in the Carettochelyidae family, and it can only be found in South Papua, Indonesia. Its population is limited and scattered across areas like Merauke and Kaimana. Known for its unique appearance, the Pig-nosed Turtle has a face resembling a pig-like nose, four fin-shaped legs for paddling, a small pointed tail, and a soft carapace.
This species is classified as Endangered according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. It is also listed on under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), indicating it is protected under international law. In Indonesia, the species has been classified as a protected species through the Decree of the Minister of Agriculture Number 327/Kpts/Um/5/1978.
The turtles lay their eggs in by building nests in the sand, leaving the hatching process to nature. This exposes the eggs to risks, such as flooding from rivers and human hunting. For generations, the Pig-nosed Turtle has been an important resource for the local indigenous people of South Papua, traditionally used as medicine and a source of animal protein.
Both the turtles and their eggs have significant economic value, making them a target for poaching, which threatens the species’ survival. In the past, people along the Vriendschaps River (now known as the Baliem River) even used the turtles as part of dowries in weddings.