Pig-nosed turtle

The pig-nosed turtle, also known as the pitted-shelled turtle or Fly River turtle, is a remarkable species native to northern Australia and southern New Guinea. It is the sole extant member of the genus Carettochelys, distinguished by its unique adaptations such as flipper-like limbs and a snout reminiscent of a pig's nose. These turtles can attain a shell length of up to 70 cm and weigh over 20 kg.

Pig-nosed turtles are omnivorous, consuming a variety of both plant and animal matter. They are known for their territorial behavior and display a social structure, particularly evident around hydrothermal vents during the cooler dry season. For reproduction, females lay their eggs on sandy riverbanks, with the hatchlings emerging in response to specific environmental cues.

These turtles inhabit freshwater streams, lagoons, and rivers in Australia's Northern Territory and New Guinea. Unfortunately, their populations have significantly declined due to illegal smuggling for the exotic pet trade. Despite protection laws in Indonesia, smuggling remains a significant threat.

Caring for pig-nosed turtles in captivity is a challenging endeavor. They are sensitive and prone to stress or illness. Their captive diet includes commercially available turtle pellets, trout chow, fruits, and vegetables. Breeding them in captivity is particularly demanding due to the aggressive behavior of adult turtles.

Illegal capture for the pet trade has severely impacted wild populations. Thousands of these turtles have been confiscated in Papua New Guinea and Indonesia. Conservation efforts are ongoing and include the release of confiscated turtles back into their natural habitats to mitigate the effects of smuggling.