New Endangered giant turtle

Malaysian giant turtles are the largest freshwater turtle in Southeast Asia and this new male weighs more than 50lbs and is more than two feet long.

He came to Bristol Zoo from Slovakia and after spending time in quarantine (in a special temperature controlled area with plenty of green leaves, turtle pellets, worms, occasional pieces of fish and figs), and undergoing thorough health checks, has been introduced to the zoo’s female turtle.

Tim Skelton, curator of reptiles at Bristol Zoo Gardens, said: “It’s a real honour to be able to work with these magnificent turtles and this new male is no exception.

“When he was first introduced to the female turtle he did not react well and the pair have been separated temporarily although both are still on display in the reptile house. We will try again, once he has had more chance to settle into his new home.”

In the wild these semi-aquatic turtles live in freshwater lakes, swamps and rivers but they are Endangered because they are hunted for meat and taken for the exotic pet trade. Their habitat is also being destroyed for palm oil plantations.

It is hoped that once settled in this new pair will breed.