Achi news desk-
Shimla A spotted turtle of a strange and extinct species is seen in the lake of Ranukaji, a famous religious place in Sirmur, Himachal Pradesh. This strange turtle seen in Ranukaji Wildlife Sanctuary was spotted for the first time in Himachal. Wildlife department workers saw the black pond turtle at the edge of the lake.
It is also known as Geoclimics Hamiltonii. This species, known as the Hamilton float, is found in freshwater habitats in the drainage basins of the Brahmaputra, Indus and Ganges rivers. These black pond turtles, found in India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Pakistan, are identified by their black head and legs and yellow or white spots on the tail.
A good sign for the environment
DFO of Wildlife Department, Shimla, Dr Shanwaz Ahmed said that the discovery of black pond turtle in Renukaji is a good sign for the environment. However, about 6 to 7 species of turtles are already present in Renukaji lake.
This turtle was first seen in Himachal
The black pond turtle was seen for the first time in Himachal. Seeing this in Renukaji is a good sign for protecting the environment. The finding of the black pond turtle in the Renukaji wetland reflects the safety and conservation of wildlife and wildlife. Many species of turtles are currently on the verge of extinction, the black pond turtle is also one of them.
These turtles are the target of hunters
Despite being protected under the schedule of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, black pond turtles are often targeted by poachers due to their high value in the illegal wildlife trade. In such a situation, the presence of an endangered species highlights the effective protection provided by the wildlife department. At the same time, it also shows the better quality of wildlife habitat available in Ranuka Wildlife Sanctuary.
Many species of turtles are found in Ranukaji.
Ranukaji Lake is the smallest of the Ramsar wetlands in India, but it is an important habitat for several endangered turtle species. The endangered Indian softshell turtle, the Indian roof turtle as well as the Indian black turtle and the Indian flap turtle are also found here. Turtles are also called aquatic scavengers. This diversity in Renukaji Lake is a positive sign of the overall health of the lake.
Tags: local18, Shimla news, wild life
First published: May 23, 2024, 11:45 PM IST
