Status Assessment and Conservation of Critically Endangered Elongated Tortoise in Southeastern Nepal

Project Overview

The Elongated Tortoise (Indotestudo elongata) is Nepal’s only fully terrestrial turtle species and is classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. In southeastern Nepal, it faces growing threats from habitat loss, forest fires, hunting, consumption, pet keeping and illegal trade. Because the species is highly secretive and difficult to observe in the wild, little is known about its distribution, population and ecology in Nepal.

This project combined field surveys, community engagement, conservation education and stakeholder collaboration to assess the species’ status and threats in Jhapa District. It also strengthened local capacity, promoted public awareness and supported the rescue and protection of tortoises.

Objectives

Assess the current status and conservation challenges of the Elongated Tortoise in Jhapa District.
Build the capacity of undergraduate students to lead conservation outreach.
Implement targeted conservation actions to reduce threats and strengthen local stewardship.

Project Impact

6

Community Forest Surveyed
3

Elongated Tortoise Rescued
11

Undergraduate Students Trained
1

Conservation Radio Jingles produced
35

Community members engaged through 2 workshops
1,300 +

Students reached across 25 schools

Rescue Story

Rescuing a Gravid Female

A rescued female Elongated Tortoise, previously taken from the wild and kept as a pet, was transferred to the Turtle Rescue and Conservation Centre. She was later found to be gravid and laid three eggs, highlighting the conservation importance of rescuing even a single individual of this Critically Endangered species.