Dr. Sabine Schoppe
Director, Philippine Freshwater Turtle Conservation Program (PFTCP)
Research: To see is to believe: Camera trapping of the critically endangered Philippine Forest Turtle Siebenrockiella leytensis
Species/Topic: Forest Turtle
Abstract: The Philippine Forest Turtle Siebenrockiella leytensis is a critically endangered freshwater turtle that is endemic to Palawan, Philippines. It is threatened by over-exploitation for the international pet market, collection for food, and by habitat destruction. Knowledge on the biology and ecology of the species is very limited. The species appears to have behaviour unique among freshwater turtles. It is nocturnal and individuals seem to rest during daytime in a den which they occupy in groups, and to which they might return day by day after their foraging trips. The proposed study aims at gathering the first information on the diurnal and season rhythm of the species, on territoriality and foraging behaviour.