Cane turtle

Abstract: The Western Ghats part of the Western Ghats-Sri Lanka hotspot harbors two endemic terrestrial chelonians, the Cochin forest cane turtle Vijayachelys silvatica and the Travancore tortoise Indotestudo travancorica. Population estimates as well as information on the scale and intensity of threats for these chelonians are largely unavailable. This study attempts to address these gaps for two hill ranges of the Western Ghats. Thirty random quadrats at eight forest ranges were surveyed for chelonians and their carapaces recording any found en route and also during opportunistic surveys. Three live V. silvatica and 38 I. travancorica were subsequently encountered and had overall densities of 0.006 and 0.03 individuals per hectare, respectively. These chelonians were found at quadrats with lower light intensity and soil temperature. Nine carapaces were found during the field surveys: seven the result of human consumption, one trapped in a pit, and another consumed by a wild animal. In addition to field surveys, household surveys in 26 indigenous and nonindigenous human settlements resulted in the observation of one V. silvatica and 38 I. travancorica including a carapace. Roads were surveyed to assess the threat they posed to chelonians, resulting in the observation of two I. travancorica road kills. Increased interactions and discussions between the management authorities and local communities need to be promoted if chelonian conservation is to improve in the landscape.

Abstract: This study investigates the hunting of two endemic and threatened terrestrial chelonians, the Cochin forest cane turtle (Vijayachelys silvatica) and Travancore tortoise (Indotestudo travancorica) in the Western Ghats region of India. Informal interviews were conducted with indigenous and non-indigenous communities and Forest Department officials to understand the dynamics of chelonian hunting and the existent rationale and beliefs that supported it. Chelonian consumption was existent among both indigenous and non-indigenous communities, but was higher among the former. Indotestudo travancorica was exploited to a larger extent than Vijayachelys silvatica. Both the species were used as a cure for piles and asthma, to increase body strength and were largely captured during collection of non-timber forest produce and fire management activities. These chelonians were also sold to local hotels and served to customers known on a personal basis with minimal transfer to urban areas. Conservation action needs to be prioritised towards I. travancorica, by upgrading its IUCN Red List status, and also through increased interaction between the Forest Department and local communities to improve chelonian conservation in the landscape.

Abstract: The author, who initiated a recent search that led to the rediscovery of the rare cane turtle in south-west India (see Oryx , July 1983), recently returned to the Anaimalai area. With the help of Kadar tribal people he found a group of lion-tailed macaques little outside their known range—a discovery that assumes significance when one considers that it is one of the world's most endangered primate species.