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Pig-Nosed Turtle

PIG-NOSED TURTLE PROFILE

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.

So, what has the Papua Conservation Team been doing?

The team focuses on conserving endemic freshwater species while rising community awareness about the importance of protecting freshwater ecosystems. Their activities include:

  • Studying turtle habitats
  • Researching spatial use patterns
  • Understanding the relationship between the turtles and local communities

Since 2022, the team has been conducting research to better learn more about the turtles’ ecology and the social factors that support their survival. We carry out most of our research from August to October each year, coinciding with the turtle’s nesting season. The main research site is the Kao River in Boven Digoel Regency, South Papua, Indonesia.

If we find the right way to teach people about wildlife, we can touch their hearts.

If we find the right way to teach people about wildlife, we can touch their hearts.

Pig-Nosed Turtle

Part of the Eukarya domain and Testudines order, Carettochelys insculpta (pig-nosed turtle) is a species found only in the southern side of Papua, Indonesia

Bird of Paradise

Greater bird-of-paradise (Paradisaea apoda, family: Paradisaeidae order: Passeriformes) is a bird-of-paradise in the genus Paradisaea

Papua Conservation

Asiki, Jair,
Boven Digoel Regency,
Papua 99661

 

T: 021-396-7102
E: mail@papuaconservation.com