Turtles Facing Extinction Due to Habitat Loss and Pollution

Sunsari. Turtles, easily seen in rivers, ponds, lakes, wetlands, and streams in the Chure region, are becoming rare due to the destruction of their natural habitats. Conservationists say that the number of turtles is declining due to the encroachment of water sources and wetlands, illegal hunting, and water pollution.

Researcher Asmit Subba, who is pursuing a doctorate on turtles and reptiles, said that turtle conservation should not be seen only as saving a creature or species. He stated that conservation will be effective only if the water where turtles live, riverbanks, the sand or soil where they lay eggs, basking spots, food, and surrounding greenery are preserved.