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: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Geoemydidae
Genus: Siebenrockiella
Species: Siebenrockiella leytensis

Common Names

Philippine forest turtle
Leyte pond turtle

Identification

Description

The Philippine forest turtle has a dark brown to black carapace with a slightly domed shape and a prominent medial keel running along the center. Its plastron is yellowish with dark blotches, and the skin is usually dark brown or black. A distinct yellow stripe runs from the back of the eyes toward the neck.

Sexual Dimorphism

Males are generally smaller than females and have longer, thicker tails. Their plastron is slightly concave, whereas females have a flatter plastron.

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range

This species is endemic to the Palawan region of the Philippines, despite earlier misidentifications suggesting it was found in Leyte. Its distribution is extremely limited, making it highly vulnerable to threats.

Preferred Habitat

The Philippine forest turtle inhabits cool, clear, fast-flowing streams and rivers within dense forested areas. It prefers rocky or sandy riverbeds with abundant vegetation and shaded areas, which provide protection from predators and a steady food supply.

Behavior

Feeding Habits

This turtle is primarily carnivorous, feeding on snails, crustaceans, and small fish, although it may also consume plant material. It uses its strong jaws to crush hard-shelled prey.

Predators

Natural predators include large birds, monitor lizards, and predatory fish. However, humans pose the biggest threat through poaching and habitat destruction.

Reproduction

Breeding Season

Little is known about its exact breeding season, but observations suggest it nests during the warmer months when conditions are favorable.

Reproductive Method

The species lays small clutches of eggs in moist, sandy or loamy soil near water sources. Hatchlings emerge after an incubation period that remains poorly documented due to the species’ rarity.

Conservation

Extinction Status

Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List)

Threats

Habitat destruction due to deforestation, mining, and agricultural expansion is a major threat. Illegal collection for the pet trade has severely impacted wild populations.

Conservation Measures

Strict legal protection is in place, but enforcement remains weak. Conservation programs include habitat restoration, captive breeding, and public awareness campaigns to reduce illegal trade. Research efforts aim to better understand the species’ ecology and reproduction.

Economic Importance

Despite being protected, the Philippine forest turtle remains highly valued in the illegal pet trade, particularly in the Asian black market. Efforts to curb trade focus on increasing penalties for trafficking and promoting sustainable ecotourism.

Interesting Facts

• It was once mistakenly thought to inhabit Leyte, but all confirmed records come from Palawan.
• This species is one of the most elusive freshwater turtles, with very limited sightings in the wild.
• Its powerful jaws can deliver a painful bite, making it challenging to handle.
• Conservationists consider it a “living fossil” due to its ancient lineage and primitive features.