What kind of animal is the Batagur turtle? We will explain the species, characteristics, personality, ecology, and habitat. The Batagur turtle is a member of the Japanese pond turtle family and is a very small turtle. Although it is a very popular turtle, it is an endangered species and is in a very critical situation.
What is Batagur Turtle? Basic Stats
The Batagur turtle is classified as a turtle in the family Geodactylidae and the genus Batagur. Its scientific name is Butagur baska, its English name is Northern river terrapin, and its other name is Four-toed Toe Turtle. Its carapace length is 50cm and its weight is 15kg. The list of information is as follows.
| Japanese（和名） | バタグールガメ |
| English（英名） | Northern river terrapin |
| scientific name(学名) | Geochelone elegans |
| classification（分類） | Reptilia、Testudines、 Testudinidae、Butagur 爬虫綱、カメ目、リクガメ科、バタグールガメ属 |
| IUCN Status(保全状況) | CRITICALLY ENDANGERED |
| Length（体長） | 50cm |
| Weight（体重） | 15kg |
Habitat
The Batagur turtle is found in India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and parts of Southeast Asia.
What are its characteristics? What kind of creature is it?
The Batagur turtle is a member of the Japanese pond turtle family. Females are larger than males and have a slightly dome-shaped raised carapace. The carapace is gray or dark green in color. The limbs are sturdy and have webbed fingers between the toes. Batagur turtles live in aquatic environments such as medium to large rivers.
What is its personality like?
Batagur turtles are active, so they move around a lot and swim well. Therefore, they are recommended for those who want to play with them because they are very active.
What is their ecology like?
Batagur turtles are herbivorous and live mainly on fallen fruit, leaves, buds and grass. They reproduce oviparously, often laying a large number of eggs, about 10 to 34 at a time. Hatching often takes about 100 days. Their lifespan depends on the species, but they can live for about 8 to 10 years, making them a long-lived animal.
Do they have any natural enemies?
The natural predators of the Batagur turtle include eagles, hawks and even foxes.
Is the Batagur turtle an endangered species?
The Batagur turtle is listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), and international trade is restricted. Not only has its habitat been reduced due to recent development, but it has also been overfished as a pet, which has become a problem. You can also see photos of the animals at the top of the website or at the top of the page.
Can the Batagur turtle be kept as a pet?
The Batagur turtle can be kept as a pet. The following items are necessary for keeping a turtle. Small individuals are newly registered and sold, and there are many adoption requests, so check them out. Pay attention to the type of food and cage. They also have a long lifespan, so take that into consideration. Check the food and how to keep them warm. There are many products available in shops, and it is easy to purchase supplies such as food, cases, and lights.
Cage
Depending on the size of the shell and the growth rate, a cage with a width of about 60 cm is required at the shop. It is recommended to use a reptile cage made of glass, acrylic, or plastic.
Flooring
There are various types of flooring, from large to small. There are many types such as red clay, coconut shells, and artificial turf. Sometimes they are sold at a low price during campaigns.
Heater
If necessary, prepare an air conditioner or heater to make sure your turtle is comfortable. There are panel heaters, spot lamps, and basking lights.
Thermo-hygrometer
When raising amphibious turtles, it is very important to control the temperature and humidity. It is best to keep the temperature at around 30 degrees.
Lighting
Turtles are animals that maintain their health by producing vitamin D3 in their bodies, which promotes calcium absorption, by exposing them to strong ultraviolet rays in a day. For this reason, lighting is essential. There are incandescent and fluorescent tube types, and it is best to choose one that suits the cage. Use the sunlight hours as a guide for lighting.
Shelter
Turtles are living creatures, so it is a good idea to have a shelter as a point to create a place where individuals can escape indoors. Make sure to install it properly so as not to cause them too much stress.
Water dish
A water dish is also essential. Clean the water bowl every day and provide fresh water.
Pet food
Turtles are herbivorous and their food consists mainly of small vegetables and fruits, with some komatsuna and mushrooms. Some turtles eat wild plants instead of vegetables. Give them fruits such as bananas, watermelon, apples, strawberries, kiwis, and mangoes as snacks. Some people also give supplements as a reference. It is a good idea to start by offering commercially available products. These contain all the nutrients that living creatures need.
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