Critically Endangered Turtles That Might Disappear Forever
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When I first started learning about turtles, I had no idea some of them were this close to disappearing forever.
We’re not talking about a small drop in numbers—some of these species have fewer than 10 individuals left in the wild. That’s not rare. That’s on the edge of extinction.
In this post, I’ll show you the critically endangered turtles that need urgent help. No fluff. Just the facts. Because once they’re gone, they’re gone for good.
What Does Critically Endangered Really Mean?
It means the turtle is in serious trouble.
Like, could-go-extinct-in-our-lifetime kind of trouble.
The IUCN (they keep the global species list) gives this label to animals that have lost most of their population or have a tiny number left. We’re talking fewer than 250 mature individuals in many cases.
If nothing changes, the next step is extinction. No second chance.
Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here
I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species database. This isn’t your average turtle list. Filter by genus, conservation status, and more. How many species? Which are endangered? What’s the tiniest one? It’s all there.
How Can We Help These Turtles
You don’t need to be a scientist or run a rescue center to make a difference. Here’s what actually helps:
Support turtle conservation groups
Groups like Turtle Survival Alliance or local rescue centers need donations to protect habitats, run breeding programs, and fight illegal trade.
Stop buying wild-caught turtles
Never buy turtles taken from the wild. It fuels the black market and pushes rare species even closer to extinction.
Share their stories
Raising awareness works. Share posts, talk about them, and help others care before it’s too late.
Keep habitats clean
Pollution kills. If you live near rivers, beaches, or wetlands, cleanups and responsible behavior go a long way.
Adopt, don’t take
If you want a pet turtle, go for rescues or captive-bred ones. Never take one from the wild.
Every little thing adds up. The worst thing we can do is look away.
This Hilarious Turtle Book Might Know Your Pet Better Than You Do
Let’s be real—most turtle care guides feel like reading a textbook written by a sleep-deprived zookeeper.
This one’s not that.
Told from the snarky point of view of a grumpy, judgmental turtle, 21 Turtle Truths You’ll Never Read in a Care Guide is packed with sarcasm, sass, and surprisingly useful insights.
And hey—you don’t have to commit to the whole thing just yet.
Grab 2 free truths from the ebook and get a taste of what your turtle really thinks about your setup, your food choices, and that weird plastic palm tree.
It’s funny, it’s honest, and if you’ve ever owned a turtle who glares at you like you’re the problem—you’ll feel seen.
Critically Endangered Turtle Species
Pyxis planicauda (Flat-tailed Tortoise)
The flat-tailed tortoise is a small, critically endangered tortoise found only in Madagascar. It’s best known for its unusually flat shell, which helps it hide under leaf litter. Its unique shape and limited range make it one of the rarest tortoises in the world. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TestudinidaeGenus: PyxisSpecies: Pyxis planicauda…
Pyxis arachnoides (Common Spider Tortoise)
Pyxis arachnoides, or the common spider tortoise, is a small and striking tortoise species native to Madagascar. It gets its name from the web-like pattern on its shell, which looks like a spider’s web. This tortoise is critically endangered and found only in limited areas of dry forest. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily:…
Pseudemydura umbrina (Western Swamp Turtle)
Pseudemydura umbrina, known as the Western Swamp Turtle, is one of Australia’s rarest reptiles. It’s a small, freshwater turtle that only lives in a few seasonal swamps near Perth, Western Australia. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: ChelidaeGenus: PseudemyduraSpecies: P. umbrina Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise…
Psammobates geometricus (Geometric Tortoise)
Psammobates geometricus, also known as the geometric tortoise, is one of the most visually striking tortoise species on earth. It’s critically endangered and found only in a small part of South Africa. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TestudinidaeGenus: PsammobatesSpecies: Psammobates geometricus Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and…
Podocnemis lewyana (Magdalena River Turtle)
Podocnemis lewyana is a freshwater turtle found only in Colombia. It’s known for its smooth shell and gentle nature. Sadly, this species is now highly endangered due to human activities. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: PodocnemididaeGenus: PodocnemisSpecies: P. lewyana Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species…
Platysternon megacephalum (Big-headed Turtle)
Platysternon megacephalum, also known as the Big-headed Turtle, is a rare and ancient-looking species with a distinctively large head that it cannot retract into its shell. It’s known for its powerful jaws and its unique climbing ability, which is unusual among turtles. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: PlatysternidaeGenus: PlatysternonSpecies: Platysternon megacephalum Warning: You…
Pelochelys cantorii (Cantor’s Giant Softshell Turtle)
Pelochelys cantorii, or Cantor’s Giant Softshell Turtle, is one of the largest freshwater turtles in the world. Known for its broad, smooth shell and secretive nature, this species spends most of its life buried in sand, surfacing only to breathe or feed. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TrionychidaeGenus: PelochelysSpecies: P. cantorii Warning: You…
Pangshura sylhetensis (Assam Roofed Turtle)
Pangshura sylhetensis, also known as the Assam Roofed Turtle, is a rare freshwater species found in parts of Northeast India and Bangladesh. It is small, brightly colored, and critically endangered due to habitat loss and limited distribution. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: PangshuraSpecies: P. sylhetensis Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve…
Palea steindachner (Wattle-necked softshell turtle)
The wattle-necked softshell turtle (Palea steindachneri) is a unique freshwater turtle known for the fleshy wattles on its neck and its flat, leathery shell. It is a softshell species that spends most of its life underwater, using stealth and speed to survive. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TrionychidaeGenus: PaleaSpecies: Palea steindachneri Warning: You…
Testudo kleinmanni (Egyptian Tortoise)
The Egyptian Tortoise (Testudo kleinmanni) is one of the smallest tortoise species in the world, adapted to arid desert environments. This critically endangered species is known for its pale coloration, which helps it blend into sandy habitats and reflect heat. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TestudinidaeGenus: TestudoSpecies: T. kleinmanni Warning: You Might Spend…
Sternotherus depressus (Flattened Musk Turtle)
Sternotherus depressus, also known as the Flattened Musk Turtle, is a small freshwater turtle found only in a limited area of Alabama, USA. Its flattened shell helps it hide under rocks in fast-flowing streams, making it well-adapted to life in clear, rocky waters. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: KinosternidaeGenus: SternotherusSpecies: depressus Warning: You…
Siebenrockiella leytensis (Philippine forest turtle)
Siebenrockiella leytensis, also known as the Philippine forest turtle, is a rare freshwater species native to the Philippines. This secretive turtle is highly endangered due to habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade, making it one of the most sought-after and threatened turtles in the world. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: SiebenrockiellaSpecies: Siebenrockiella…
Sacalia quadriocellata (Four-eyed Turtle)
Sacalia quadriocellata, commonly known as the Four-eyed Turtle, is a small freshwater turtle native to parts of Asia. It is named for the two pairs of eye-like spots on the back of its head, which may serve as a defense mechanism against predators. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: SacaliaSpecies: Sacalia quadriocellata Warning:…
Nilssonia nigricans (Black Softshell Turtle)
Nilssonia nigricans, commonly known as the Black Softshell Turtle, is a freshwater species native to South Asia. Once considered extinct in the wild, it survives mainly due to conservation efforts in temple ponds and protected areas. This species is known for its distinct dark-colored carapace and unique softshell structure. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder:…
Nilssonia leithii (Leith’s Softshell Turtle)
Nilssonia leithii, commonly known as Leith’s Softshell Turtle, is a freshwater species native to India. This large softshell turtle is primarily found in rivers and reservoirs, though its population has declined due to habitat destruction and exploitation. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TrionychidaeGenus: NilssoniaSpecies: Nilssonia leithii Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve…
Nilssonia formosa (Burmese peacock softshell turtle)
Nilssonia formosa, commonly known as the Burmese peacock softshell turtle, is a rare freshwater species found in Southeast Asia. It is known for its striking appearance, featuring a pattern of eye-like spots on its carapace, resembling the feathers of a peacock. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TrionychidaeGenus: NilssoniaSpecies: Nilssonia formosa Warning: You Might…
Ranacephala hogei (Hoge’s side-necked turtle)
Ranacephala hogei, also known as Hoge’s side-necked turtle, is a rare freshwater species native to Brazil. This turtle belongs to the Chelidae family and is distinguished by its habit of tucking its head sideways rather than retracting it fully into the shell. Due to habitat destruction and other threats, it is considered one of the…
Rafetus swinhoei (Yangtze Giant Softshell Turtle)
Rafetus swinhoei, known as the Yangtze Giant Softshell Turtle, is one of the rarest turtles in the world. It holds the unfortunate title of being on the brink of extinction, with only a handful of individuals confirmed in existence. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TrionychidaeGenus: RafetusSpecies: R. swinhoei Warning: You Might Spend Hours…
Orlitia borneensis (Malaysian Giant Turtle)
Orlitia borneensis, known as the Malaysian Giant Turtle, is one of the largest freshwater turtles in Southeast Asia. This species is highly aquatic and prefers deep, slow-moving rivers and lakes. Due to habitat loss and illegal trade, its population has declined significantly in recent years. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: OrlitiaSpecies: O….
Mesoclemmys dahli (Dahl’s Toad-headed Turtle)
Mesoclemmys dahli, commonly known as Dahl’s Toad-headed Turtle, is a distinctive freshwater turtle species recognized for its unique head shape and vibrant coloration. Native to specific regions in South America, this turtle plays a crucial role in its ecosystem and faces various conservation challenges. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the…
Mauremys sinensis (Chinese stripe-necked turtle)
Mauremys sinensis, commonly known as the Chinese stripe-necked turtle, is a freshwater turtle species native to East Asia. Recognized by its distinctive neck stripes, this turtle plays a significant role in both its ecosystem and local economies. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species database. This…
Mauremys mutica (yellow pond turtle)
Mauremys mutica, commonly known as the yellow pond turtle, is a freshwater species native to East Asia. Known for its distinctive coloration and adaptability, this turtle inhabits a variety of aquatic environments. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species database. This isn’t your average turtle list….
Mauremys annamensis (Vietnamese Pond Turtle)
Mauremys annamensis, commonly known as the Vietnamese Pond Turtle, is a critically endangered freshwater turtle species native to Vietnam. Its unique appearance and restricted distribution make it a key focus of conservation efforts. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: MauremysSpecies: Mauremys annamensis Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle…
Manouria emys (Asian forest tortoise)
Manouria emys, commonly known as the Asian forest tortoise, is the largest tortoise native to mainland Asia. Known for its adaptability, it inhabits dense forests and is highly active compared to other tortoise species. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TestudinidaeGenus: ManouriaSpecies: Manouria emys Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate…
Malacochersus tornieri (Pancake Tortoise)
Malacochersus tornieri, commonly known as the pancake tortoise, is a unique species of tortoise known for its flat, flexible shell. Unlike most tortoises, it is adapted to live in rocky crevices, which provide protection and a distinct lifestyle. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species database….
Kinosternon vogti (Vallarta mud turtle)
The Vallarta mud turtle, Kinosternon vogti, is a small freshwater turtle endemic to Mexico. Known for its limited range and unique features, it thrives in specific habitats and faces conservation challenges due to its restricted distribution. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species database. This isn’t…
Leucocephalon yuwonoi (Sulawesi Forest Turtle)
Leucocephalon yuwonoi, known for its unique head coloring, is a freshwater turtle found in Sulawesi. It is not large but stands out due to its distinctive appearance and reclusive nature. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: LeucocephalonSpecies: Leucocephalon yuwonoi Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species…
Lepidochelys kempii (Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle)
Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle is a small marine turtle with a round, grayish-green shell and a lighter underside. It is often found in warm coastal waters and is known for its unique nesting behavior. Its numbers have been low, making it one of the most endangered sea turtles on the planet. Scientific Classification Warning: You…
Kinixys homeana (Home’s Hinge-back Tortoise)
Kinixys homeana, commonly known as Home’s Hinge-back Tortoise, is a species of tortoise native to the forests of West and Central Africa. Notable for its unique hinged shell, this tortoise can partially close its carapace to protect itself from predators. Its adaptability to dense, humid environments makes it a fascinating subject for herpetologists and conservationists…
Gopherus flavomarginatus (Bolson Tortoise)
Gopherus flavomarginatus, commonly known as the Bolson Tortoise, is a large, slow-moving tortoise species native to the northern deserts of Mexico. Known for its impressive burrowing ability, this species plays a vital role in its ecosystem by creating habitats that benefit other wildlife. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate…
Gopherus agassizii (Desert Tortoise)
The Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is a resilient reptile native to the arid regions of North America. Renowned for its longevity and distinctive burrowing behavior, this species plays a crucial role in its ecosystem. Despite its hardy nature, the Desert Tortoise faces numerous conservation challenges. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built…
Glyptemys muhlenbergii (Bog Turtle)
The Bog Turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii) is one of North America’s smallest and most endangered turtle species. Renowned for its distinctive markings and elusive nature, this turtle plays a crucial role in wetland ecosystems. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species database. This isn’t your average turtle…
Indotestudo forstenii (Forsten’s Tortoise)
Indotestudo forstenii, commonly known as Forsten’s Tortoise, is a unique species of tortoise native to Southeast Asia. Renowned for its distinctive shell patterns and adaptive behaviors, this tortoise plays a vital role in its ecosystem. Despite facing various threats, ongoing conservation efforts aim to preserve its population and natural habitat. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might…
Indotestudo elongata (Elongated Tortoise)
Indotestudo elongata, commonly known as the Elongated Tortoise, is a distinctive species of tortoise native to South Asia. Renowned for its unique shell shape and adaptive behaviors, this species plays a vital role in its ecosystem. Despite facing various threats, conservation efforts are underway to ensure its survival for future generations. Scientific Classification Warning: You…
Geochelone platynota (Burmese Star Tortoise)
Geochelone platynota, commonly known as the Burmese Star Tortoise, is a captivating reptile species renowned for its distinctive star-patterned shell. Native to Southeast Asia, this tortoise plays a vital role in its ecosystem and is subject to various conservation efforts due to habitat loss and poaching. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve…
Heosemys grandis (Giant Asian Pond Turtle)
Heosemys grandis, commonly known as the Giant Asian Pond Turtle, is one of the largest freshwater turtles native to Southeast Asia. Recognized for its impressive size and distinctive shell, this species plays a vital role in its ecosystem but faces threats from habitat loss and over-exploitation. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve…
Heosemys depressa (Arakan Forest Turtle)
The Arakan forest turtle (Heosemys depressa) is a critically endangered species native to the dense forests of Myanmar. Once thought to be extinct, it was rediscovered in the wild in 1994, bringing attention to its precarious existence and the urgent need for conservation efforts. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the…
Heosemys annandalii (yellow-headed temple turtle)
Heosemys annandalii, commonly known as the Yellow-headed Temple Turtle, is a large freshwater turtle native to Southeast Asia. Recognized for its distinctive yellow markings on the head, this species often inhabits temple ponds, which contributes to its common name. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species…
Erymnochelys madagascariensis (Madagascan Big-headed Turtle)
Erymnochelys madagascariensis, also known as the Madagascan Big-headed Turtle, is an endangered freshwater species native to Madagascar. Known for its unusually large head, this turtle is a vital part of its ecosystem, but faces severe threats from habitat loss and exploitation. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and…
Eretmochelys imbricata (Hawksbill Sea Turtle)
The Hawksbill Sea Turtle is a critically endangered species known for its strikingly beautiful, overlapping shell plates that have been used historically in the tortoiseshell trade. These turtles are primarily found in tropical coral reefs and are essential for maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built…
Dermatemys mawii (Central American River Turtle)
Dermatemys mawii, commonly known as the Central American river turtle, is a critically endangered freshwater species native to Central America. It is one of the few fully aquatic turtles in the region and is known for its nocturnal habits, making it unique among turtles in its environment. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here…
Chelonoidis porteri (Western Santa Cruz Tortoise)
Chelonoidis porteri, commonly known as the Western Santa Cruz Tortoise, is one of the largest tortoise species in the world. Native to the Galápagos Islands, this species is famous for its long lifespan, often exceeding 100 years, and its role in Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve…
Chelonoidis phantasticus (Fernandina Giant Tortoise)
Chelonoidis phantasticus, commonly known as the Fernandina Island Giant Tortoise, is a species of giant tortoise that was long thought to be extinct until a remarkable rediscovery in 2019. Native to the Galápagos Islands, this species is a symbol of resilience and a testament to the unique biodiversity of the archipelago. Scientific Classification Warning: You…
Chelonoidis hoodensis (Española Giant Tortoise)
Chelonoidis hoodensis is a species of giant tortoise endemic to Española Island in the Galápagos archipelago. Known for its role in the remarkable conservation story of the Galápagos tortoises, Chelonoidis hoodensis has made a significant recovery from the brink of extinction. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and…
Chelonoidis guntheri (Günther’s Giant Tortoise)
Chelonoidis guntheri is a lesser-known species of tortoise that inhabits specific regions of South America. Named in honor of the British herpetologist Albert Günther, this species is part of the diverse Chelonoidis genus, known for its large and iconic tortoises. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise…
Chelonoidis donfaustoi (Eastern Santa Cruz Tortoise)
Chelonoidis donfaustoi is a recently discovered species of giant tortoise endemic to the Galápagos Islands. It was named in honor of Fausto Llerena Sánchez, a long-time caretaker of the famous Lonesome George. This species is known for its distinct shell shape and restricted habitat on Santa Cruz Island. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours…
Chelonoidis darwini (Santiago Island Tortoise)
Chelonoidis darwini, commonly known as Santiago Island Tortoise, is a unique species of tortoise native to the Galápagos Islands. Renowned for its historical connection to Charles Darwin, this species is a symbol of evolution and conservation efforts. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species database. This…
Cyclanorbis elegans (Nubian Flapshell Turtle)
Cyclanorbis elegans, commonly known as the Nubian Flapshell Turtle, is a unique species of softshell turtle native to Africa. This species is known for its elegant, flattened carapace and distinctive behavior, making it a fascinating subject of study for herpetologists and turtle enthusiasts alike. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the…
Cuora zhoui (Zhou’s Box Turtle)
Cuora zhoui is a critically endangered species of turtle known for its unique shell pattern and limited distribution. This species is highly sought after in the pet trade, making it vulnerable to overexploitation. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species database. This isn’t your average turtle…
Cuora yunnanensis (Yunnan Box Turtle)
Cuora yunnanensis is a critically endangered species of turtle, known primarily from a few historical records. Native to the Yunnan province in China, this species was long considered extinct until its rediscovery in the 2000s, making it a subject of great conservation interest. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate…
Cuora trifasciata (Chinese three-banded box turtle)
Cuora trifasciata, commonly known as the Golden Coin Turtle, is a critically endangered species of box turtle native to Southeast Asia. Known for its striking yellow-striped carapace, this turtle is highly valued in traditional medicine and the pet trade, leading to severe population declines. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the…
Cuora praschagi (Praschag’s Box Turtle)
Cuora praschagi, commonly known as Praschag’s box turtle, is a medium-sized, highly endangered freshwater turtle species found primarily in Southeast Asia. Known for its striking appearance, this species is recognized by conservationists for its critical conservation status due to habitat loss and illegal trade. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: CuoraSpecies: Cuora praschagi…
Cuora picturata (Southern Vietnamese box turtle)
Cuora picturata, commonly known as the Vietnamese Leaf Turtle, is a rare and beautifully marked turtle species native to Vietnam. Known for its vibrant and intricate shell patterns, this species is highly sought after by turtle enthusiasts and conservationists alike due to its declining population in the wild. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours…
Cuora pani (Pan’s Box Turtle)
Cuora pani, commonly known as Pan’s box turtle, is a critically endangered species of freshwater turtle native to China. It is known for its distinctive hinged plastron, allowing it to completely enclose itself within its shell as a defense mechanism. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise…
Cuora mccordi (McCord’s Box Turtle)
Cuora mccordi, also known as McCord’s box turtle, is a rare and critically endangered species of box turtle. Found primarily in a small region of China, it is known for its distinctive yellow and black markings. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species database. This isn’t…
Cuora galbinifrons (Indochinese Box Turtle)
Cuora galbinifrons, commonly known as the Indochinese Box Turtle, is a species of turtle known for its striking coloration and unique hinged shell. This turtle is valued both for its beauty and its role in various ecosystems. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species database. This…
Cuora cyclornata (Vietnamese three-striped box turtle)
Cuora cyclornata, commonly known as the Vietnamese Three-striped Box Turtle, is a medium-sized freshwater turtle known for its striking appearance and unique behaviors. This species is highly valued in the pet trade and is often sought after by collectors. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species…
Cuora bourreti (Bourret’s Box Turtle)
Cuora bourreti, commonly known as Bourret’s Box Turtle, is a small, terrestrial turtle species found in Southeast Asia. Known for its striking coloration and unique shell patterns, this turtle is a rare and protected species due to its declining population in the wild. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: CuoraSpecies: C. bourreti Warning:…
Cuora aurocapitata (Golden-headed Box Turtle)
Cuora aurocapitata, also known as the Golden-headed Box Turtle, is a critically endangered species native to China. This medium-sized turtle is renowned for its distinctive golden-yellow head and dark brown carapace. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: CuoraSpecies: Cuora aurocapitata Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise…
Chelodina mccordi (McCord’s snakeneck turtle)
Chelodina Mccordi, commonly known as McCord’s snakeneck turtle, is a critically endangered species of turtle. This species is native to the Indonesian island of Rote and is known for its elongated neck and unique appearance. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: ChelidaeGenus: ChelodinaSpecies: C. mccordi Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the…
Chelodina gunaleni (Gunaleni’s Snake-necked Turtle)
Chelodina gunaleni is a freshwater turtle species known for its distinctive long neck and striking appearance. This species, part of the Chelidae family, has garnered attention due to its unique adaptive features and ecological role in its native habitat. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species…
Chitra vandijki (Van Dijk’s Softshell Turtle)
Chitra vandijki, commonly known as the Burmese narrow-headed softshell turtle, is a rare and critically endangered species. This aquatic turtle is known for its distinctively elongated head and flattened shell, making it one of the most unique softshells in its range. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and…
Chitra chitra (Asian Giant Softshell Turtle)
Chitra chitra, commonly known as the Asian Narrow-headed Softshell Turtle, is a large freshwater turtle species known for its distinctively elongated head and flattened shell. This turtle is noteworthy not only for its unique physical attributes but also for its rarity and critically endangered status. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built…
Batagur trivittata (Burmese Roofed Turtle)
Batagur trivittata, commonly known as the Burmese Roofed Turtle, is a critically endangered freshwater turtle species. Known for its striking appearance and fascinating behavior, this species has captured the interest of conservationists worldwide. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species database. This isn’t your average turtle…
Batagur kachuga (Red-crowned Roofed Turtle)
Batagur kachuga, also known as the Red-crowned Roofed Turtle, is a critically endangered freshwater turtle native to South Asia. This species is renowned for its distinctive red stripe on the crown, adding a unique touch to its appearance. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species database….
Batagur dhongoka (Three-striped Roofed Turtle)
The Batagur dhongoka, commonly known as the Three-striped Roofed Turtle, is a distinctive species of river turtle primarily found in the river systems of South Asia. It is recognized for its unique shell pattern and conservation significance due to its declining population. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle…
Batagur borneoensis (Painted Terrapin)
Batagur borneoensis, also known as the painted terrapin, is a notable freshwater turtle species. Distinguished by its vivid coloration and significant cultural importance in its native regions, it is under serious threat due to habitat destruction and exploitation. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species database….
Batagur baska (Northern river terrapin)
Batagur baska, commonly known as the northern river terrapin, is a critically endangered species of turtle found in parts of Southeast Asia. This species is noted for its striking shell and historically significant decline in numbers due to human activity. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise…
Batagur affinis (Southern River Terrapin)
Batagur affinis, commonly known as the Southern River Terrapin, is a critically endangered species of river turtle found in Southeast Asia. This species is known for its unique reproductive behaviors and significant cultural importance in the regions where it is found. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and…
Astrochelys yniphora (Ploughshare Tortoise)
Astrochelys yniphora, also known as the Angonoka tortoise or Ploughshare tortoise, is a critically endangered species of tortoise. Native to Madagascar, this tortoise is known for its distinctively high-domed shell and striking golden coloration. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species database. This isn’t your average…
Astrochelys radiata (Radiated Tortoise)
The Astrochelys radiata, commonly known as the Radiated Tortoise, is a species renowned for its striking shell markings which are highly distinctive and intricate. These tortoises are long-lived and have become a symbol of the wildlife endemic to Madagascar. Scientific Classification Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species…
About Author
Muntaseer Rahman started keeping pet turtles back in 2013. He also owns the largest Turtle & Tortoise Facebook community in Bangladesh. These days he is mostly active on Facebook.
