Population Status of the Indian Softshell Turtle (Nilssonia gangetica) in Chitwan, Nepal
Shyam Kumar Pun, Craig B. Stanford, Amtyaz Safi and Jagan Nath Adhikari
SUMMARY
We conducted this study to determine the population, distribution, and threats of the Indian softshell turtle (Nilssonia gangetica) in Chitwan, Nepal, based on a social survey conducted in four sites along the Rapti River in Chitwan, Nepal. The direct survey was conducted in August 2024 and involved 100 respondents selected through simple random sampling, with participation from local ethnic communities, park officials, and conservation stakeholders. The Indian softshell turtle was recognized by 49.2% of respondents. Most turtle encounters occurred near rivers during routine activities such as fishing, wood collection, and grazing. Although 86% of families did not report collecting turtles, children and local individuals were more involved in collection than outsiders. The primary reasons for collection are food and decoration. Major threats identified include habitat loss, pollution, human disturbances, traditional medicinal use, and lack of awareness.
Keywords: Indian softshell turtle, Status, Survey, Threats.