The giant tortoise, scientifically known as Heosemys grandis, is a species of the turtle family Geoemydidae. This imposing species is native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, where it can be found in forests, swamps and rivers.
These turtles can grow up to 60 cm in length and weigh about 20 kg, making them one of the largest turtle species in their habitat. They are easily identified by their large, heavy shell, which is usually dark brown or black with small yellowish spots. The abdominal plate (plastron) is lighter in color and has a unique pattern that aids in individual identification.
The giant tortoises are generally herbivorous, with a diet consisting mainly of leaves, shoots, fruits, and flowers, although they may also eat insects and other small animals.
In Thailand, the giant tortoise faces several threats, including habitat loss from deforestation and pollution. They are also captured for the trade in exotic animals, both for pets and for their meat. Despite their large size, they are quite shy by nature and reproduction in the wild is slow, further hampering their ability to recover from this pressure.
Efforts are now being made to protect and restore the giant tortoise population. This includes establishing reserves and implementing stricter laws to restrict hunting and trade. In addition, breeding programs are being set up in some areas to help the population recover. However, the survival of the giant tortoise in Thailand remains a concern and more work is needed to conserve this majestic species.
I live in Ban Kok, Mancha Khiri District, Khon Kaen Province, also called Turtle Village. Turtle Village can be found via Google and in some tourist guides. We sometimes have 8 turtles (actually tortoises) walking around in our garden at the same time. One night a very large black turtle came crawling out of a small pond at the back of our house. Because he was abnormally large, I measured him. He was 47 cm long and crawled through the garden to the large pond in front of our house. Almost a year later we saw him again at the edge of the pond.
Beautiful animals, intensely sad that they are traded and eaten, hope the breeding program and protection program can bear fruit and that those who commit sins to these beautiful animals do not escape their just punishment
At the Chatuchak market or Weekend Market, I see them for sale, deeply sad, what is for sale there, the turtles there are huge, did not know they come from Thailand.