Guest Post: Successful Propagation of the Chinese Big-headed turtle at Prospect Park Zoo
The most recent breeding success story comes from Prospect Park Zoo, with the hatching of Chinese big-headed turtle (Platysternon megacephalum) eggs. Since 2013 there has been encouraging activity with this breeding pair, which has produced multiple viable ova resulting in 13 hatchlings. The Prospect Park Zoo, a member of the Wildlife Conservation Society, has been working with this species since 2008, when they decided to take on the challenge of this notoriously complicated species. The breeding pair was housed off-exhibit in order that they could be closely monitered in a stress-free enviroment as well as allowing the keepers to provide a photoperiod that was natural to their native habitat. Success with breeding began with hibernation, which occurred approximately from November to April. Hibernation is thought to be key to successful breeding as it stimulates the production of the required hormones. Platysternon megacephalum is listed as endangered on the IUCN’s Red List and CITES Appendix II, but may soon be updated to a critically endangered status. The Wildlife Conservation Society hopes to establish an assurance colony in the United States in order to protect this amazing and beautiful species.
Turtle News From Around the World
Conservation
Dim your lights to save hatchling sea turtles
Eight sea turtles released in South Florida
Sea turtles rebounding in Florida
Blackout rules for the upcoming nesting season
Assist in the tracking of reptiles and amphibians in Ontario
Nests found from a turtle at risk of extinction
Ecology
Nesting season reminders
Red-eared Sliders a major issue for Japan’s ecosystem
Miscellany
Schedule a sea turtle expedition
Dead tortoise discovered in a pond at Lukamai
Did You Know…
“Habitat info: Asian Forest Tortoise (Manouria emys) It inhabits the temperate, moist, broadleaf forests of Southeast Asia that come under the influence of monsoon rains.
It is most typically found in upland mesic habitats. During the warmer parts of the day these tortoises prefer to soak in pools or to remain in the shade, out of the sun’s rays.”
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Photo from Julie Larsen Maher.
