Turtle Species Found in Khao Sok National Park

1. Brown Roofed Turtle

• Scientific Name: Pangshura smithii
• Description: A small to medium-sized turtle with a slightly elevated, brownish shell that provides excellent camouflage in its natural environment.
• Habitat: Prefers slow-moving rivers, ponds, and marshes in tropical forests.
• Behavior: Semi-aquatic, often seen basking on rocks or logs during the day and foraging for plant matter and small invertebrates.

2. Black Marsh Turtle

• Scientific Name: Siebenrockiella crassicollis
• Description: A small turtle with a dark, almost black shell and a distinctive yellowish-white throat.
• Habitat: Found in swamps, marshes, and forested wetlands, often hiding in muddy water.
• Behavior: Mostly nocturnal, it feeds on aquatic plants, insects, and small fish.

3. Yellow-headed Temple Turtle

• Scientific Name: Heosemys annandalii
• Description: A large freshwater turtle with a dark shell and a striking yellow or orange head.
• Habitat: Prefers large rivers, lakes, and deep forest streams with abundant vegetation.
• Behavior: Omnivorous, feeding on both aquatic plants and small animals; often seen in temple ponds in some regions.

4. Giant Asian Pond Turtle

• Scientific Name: Heosemys grandis
• Description: A large, dark-colored turtle with a broad, slightly domed shell.
• Habitat: Found in tropical forest wetlands, slow-moving rivers, and ponds.
• Behavior: Semi-aquatic, it spends time both in water and on land, feeding on fruits, vegetation, and small invertebrates.

Conservation Status

Many turtle species in Khao Sok National Park face threats from habitat destruction, illegal wildlife trade, and poaching. Conservation efforts within the park aim to protect these turtles and their ecosystems, ensuring their long-term survival in the wild.