These 5 Super Rare Turtles Are on the Brink of Disappearing

They’ve been around for millions of years, surviving asteroids, ice ages, and predators. But now, human activity is pushing them to the brink.

These five turtles are some of the rarest on Earth, and their numbers are dwindling fast. What makes them so special—and what can we do to save them before they disappear forever?

5 Super Rare Turtle Species

1. Yangtze Giant Softshell Turtle: The Rarest Turtle on Earth

This turtle is so rare that it makes finding a four-leaf clover look easy. The Yangtze Giant Softshell Turtle (Rafetus swinhoei) is the most endangered turtle in the world. As of now, only two known individuals exist—one in China and one in Vietnam.

Why Is It So Rare?

The reasons for its decline are sadly all too familiar:

• Habitat Destruction – Dams, pollution, and urban expansion have wiped out much of its home.
• Overhunting – People once hunted these turtles for food and traditional medicine.
• Low Reproduction – Finding a mate is hard when there are only two left.

What Makes This Turtle Special?

This isn’t your average pond turtle. Here’s what sets it apart:

Feature	Fun Fact
Size	Can grow over 3 feet long and weigh up to 220 pounds!
Habitat	Loves deep, muddy rivers and large lakes.
Diet	Enjoys fish, crustaceans, and aquatic plants.
Looks	Has a flat, leathery shell and a pig-like snout.

A Desperate Search for More

Scientists are on a mission to find more of these turtles in the wild. Every murky pond and hidden lake in Vietnam and China is being checked. So far, no luck.

The Last Hope

A male turtle lives in a Chinese breeding facility, but the last known female died in 2019. Conservationists are desperately trying to find another female to save the species.

Can It Be Saved?

Maybe. But it’s going to take:

• More discoveries – If another turtle is found, breeding can continue.
• Protected habitats – Keeping their last homes safe from destruction.
• Less pollution – Clean rivers mean a better chance of survival.

The Yangtze Giant Softshell Turtle is hanging by a thread. If we don’t act fast, it could disappear forever. Hopefully, scientists will find a hidden survivor before it’s too late.

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2. Northern River Terrapin: The Turtle Hanging by a Thread

The Northern River Terrapin is one of the rarest turtles on Earth. Once common in Southeast Asia, its population has dropped to less than 100. If turtles had a VIP list, this one would be on it—for all the wrong reasons.

Meet the Northern River Terrapin

Feature	Details
Scientific Name	Batagur baska
Estimated Population	Fewer than 100
Home Turf	Bangladesh, India, Myanmar
Status	Critically Endangered
Favorite Foods	Plants, fruits, small aquatic creatures

Why Is It in Trouble?

• Overhunting – People used to love eating these turtles, and sadly, some still do.
• Egg Theft – Their eggs are considered a delicacy. More eggs stolen = fewer baby turtles.
• Habitat Destruction – Rivers are getting polluted, and wetlands are disappearing.

Basically, it’s like trying to live in a house that keeps getting bulldozed.

Conservation Efforts

Luckily, people are fighting to save this species.

• Protected nesting sites have been set up.
• Breeding programs are helping boost numbers.
• Conservationists are working with local communities to prevent poaching.

Why Should We Care?

Imagine a world where future generations never get to see this incredible turtle. Every species plays a role in nature. Lose one, and the whole ecosystem suffers.

Saving the Northern River Terrapin isn’t just about turtles—it’s about keeping our planet balanced. Plus, who wouldn’t want to help a turtle make a comeback?

3. Western Swamp Turtle: The Tiny Survivor

The Western Swamp Turtle is one tough little creature. It’s small, shy, and incredibly rare. Found only in a tiny corner of Western Australia, this turtle is fighting for its life.

Fast Facts

Feature	Details
Size	15 cm (6 inches)
Habitat	Seasonal swamps in Western Australia
Diet	Small invertebrates, insects, tadpoles
Conservation Status	Critically Endangered
Estimated Population	Around 50 individuals

Why Is It So Rare?

• It only lives in a few wetlands that dry up in summer.
• Introduced predators like foxes love turtle snacks.
• Habitat destruction has left it with barely any home.

A Turtle That Disappears?

Western Swamp Turtles have a unique trick. When the water dries up, they bury themselves underground and wait for the rain. Talk about patience.

I once tried to wait out a heatwave under a blanket. It did not work. This turtle, however, has mastered the art of disappearing.

How Are We Helping?

• Breeding Programs: Perth Zoo is raising baby turtles for release.
• Habitat Protection: Scientists are restoring swamps for them.
• Predator Control: Efforts to reduce fox populations are underway.

Why Should We Care?

This turtle has been around for millions of years. It survived dinosaurs, climate shifts, and who knows what else. Now, humans are its biggest threat. But we can also be its best chance for survival.

If a tiny turtle can wait months underground for rain, we can definitely take a moment to support conservation efforts.

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4. Dahl’s Toad-headed Turtle: The Underdog of the Turtle World

Dahl’s Toad-headed Turtle is one of the rarest turtles on the planet. It has a funky name, a unique look, and a serious survival problem.

What’s Special About This Turtle?

• It has a flat head that looks a bit like a toad’s—hence the name.
• Its shell is smooth and oval, perfect for blending into its surroundings.
• It lives in Colombia’s freshwater streams and pools.

How Many Are Left?

Around 300 individuals. That’s fewer than most high school graduating classes.

Why Is It in Trouble?

• Farms are taking over its habitat. More agriculture means fewer clean water sources.
• Pollution is a huge problem. Pesticides and waste are contaminating its home.
• It’s been on the endangered list since 1996. That’s longer than some of us have been alive!

Conservation Efforts

• Scientists are searching for more turtles in the wild.
• Conservationists are working on protecting their habitat.
• Awareness campaigns are helping locals understand why these turtles matter.

A Personal Thought

I can’t lie—I love an underdog story. And this little turtle is the ultimate underdog. It’s been fighting for survival for decades. If people don’t step in, it might not be around much longer.

5. Arakan Forest Turtle: The “Back from the Dead” Turtle

Thought Extinct, But Nope!

Imagine thinking something is gone forever, only to find it hiding all along. That’s the story of the Arakan Forest Turtle. Scientists believed it had vanished until—surprise!—it was rediscovered in the 1990s in Myanmar.

Where Does It Live?

• Found in dense forests of Myanmar
• Prefers shady, humid areas with access to water
• Spends most of its time hiding under leaves like a ninja

Why Is It in Trouble?

This turtle faces some serious problems:

• Deforestation: People are cutting down forests, leaving it homeless
• Illegal Pet Trade: It’s rare, so smugglers want to sell it
• Poaching: Some believe it has medicinal value (it doesn’t, but try telling that to poachers)

What Makes It Special?

• Looks: It has a flattened shell, making it stand out from other turtles
• Personality: Shy and secretive, it avoids humans (smart move)
• Diet: Loves fruit, worms, and leaves—a true forest foodie

Can We Save It?

Conservationists are working hard to protect this rare turtle:

• Research: Scientists are studying its habitat and behavior
• Protection: Efforts are being made to stop illegal trade
• Awareness: The more people know, the better its chances

This turtle got a second chance. Now it just needs a little help to stick around!