Over 1,100 Hatchlings of Critically Endangered Painted Terrapin Released into Habitat
The Agency of Conservation on Natural Resources (BKSDA) and the SatuCita Foundation released 1,107 hatchlings of critically endangered Painted terrapin in the Pusung Kapal estuary, Aceh Tamiang Regency. This release was held to commemorate National Nature Conservation Day on August 10.
The BKSDA Province of Aceh collaborated with the Satucita Foundation (Yayasan SatuCita Lestari Indonesia) and other parties. Releasing animals into their natural habitat is nothing new. Previously, they had also released one Siamang gibbon (Symphalangus syndactylus) and one Golden cat (Catopuma temminicki) in the Jantho Nature Tourism Park Area on July 31.
The Origin of Hatchlings
The hatchlings of critically endangered Painted terrapin (Batagur borneoensis) they released came from 1,993 eggs that rescued from 114 egg nests that the community voluntarily handed over. There are also give awards to the community member who play an active role in the conservation of Painted terrapin and the preservation of their habitat.
The Head of the BKSDA Aceh, Ujang Wisnu Barata, expressed his appreciation and pride to YSLI, the community, and all parties who have been consistently involved since 2013 in the conservation of Painted terrapin. He also said that the activity has increased public awareness in conservation efforts.
Read: Releasing Over Four Hundred Painted Terrapin in 2023
“Extraordinary and proud. On this National Nature Conservation Day, we see an example of perseverance and consistency of work that produces positive results for widlife conservation. Synergy and collaboration between parties are very important,” said Ujang in his written statement, Tuesday (13/8).
Painted Terrapin Lives in Brackish Water
According to Ujang, this release is part of an effort to restore the coastal ecosystem. He hopes that these animals can survive and strengthen the chain of life in nature.
Meanwhile, the Head of YSLI, Yusriono, said that so far, his party has released over 4,000 hatchlings.
In addition, Joko Guntoro, director of the SatuCita Foundation stated that the survivorship of hatchlings of critically endangered Painted terrapin has evidence (indicates population recovery). He stated his optimism to recover wild population of Painted terrapin in Aceh Tamiang. However, he also stated the importance to save the riverine vegetation from land conversion to agricultural.
Assistant I of the Aceh Tamiang Regional Secretariat, Muslizar, welcomed this. He stated that the local district government will continue its commitment and support.
For information, the Painted terrapin is one of 29 species of freshwater and land turtles in Indonesia. This animal generally lives in brackish water areas. Such as estuaries and tributaries, mangrove forests, and areas that are still affected by the ebb and flow of sea water.
In addition to releasing the hatchlings, on this occasion the BKSDA Aceh and other partners also planted 100 Sea pine trees (Casuarina equisetifolia). The SatuCita Foundation is supported by Synchronicity and Houston Zoo.
