A turtle species once feared lost forever is quietly reclaiming its place in the waterways of the Sundarbans, marking one of South Asia’s most encouraging conservation successes in recent decades. The northern river terrapin, scientifically known as Batagur baska, has reappeared after decades of absence, following sustained scientific effort and community-backed protection in Bangladesh’s mangrove-rich delta.
From disappearance to rediscovery
For years, the northern river terrapin had vanished from scientific records, pushed to the edge by relentless hunting, shrinking habitats, and polluted rivers. By the early 2000s, many experts believed the species had gone extinct in the wild. That grim assumption was overturned in 2008, when just eight surviving turtles were discovered in village ponds in Noakhali and Barishal. The finding triggered renewed urgency among conservationists and government agencies, laying the foundation for a long-term recovery programme led by the Bangladesh Forest Department.
Building a safe breeding ground in the Sundarbans
Following the rediscovery, the remaining adult turtles were moved to protected facilities to prevent further losses. The conservation programme eventually found its strongest footing at the Karamjal Wildlife Breeding Centre in the Sundarbans, where conditions closely resemble the species’ natural riverine habitat. Over the years, carefully managed breeding, controlled incubation, and habitat simulation have helped the population grow steadily.
Between 2014 and 2025, conservationists recorded the hatching of 433 young turtles from 519 eggs. This year alone, 65 hatchlings emerged from 82 eggs laid by just three females, reflecting a remarkable success rate for a species once reduced to single digits. Today, the Karamjal centre is home to 457 northern river terrapins, including 15 breeding adults, making it the most significant refuge for the species anywhere in the world.
Science, technology, and patience at work
The revival of the terrapin has been driven by a blend of traditional conservation practices and modern technology. Researchers have fitted satellite transmitters on select turtles to track their movement and survival after release, helping refine future strategies. Adjustments to incubation temperatures are also being used to improve sex ratios, while tailored diets and staged releases are boosting survival rates in the wild.
International collaboration has played a key role, with organisations such as Vienna Zoo and conservation foundations supporting the programme. These partnerships have helped strengthen scientific monitoring and long-term planning, ensuring the effort goes beyond short-term recovery.
Why the terrapin’s return matters
The comeback of the northern river terrapin carries significance far beyond the species itself. As an indicator of freshwater ecosystem health, its presence signals improving river conditions in parts of the Sundarbans, a region increasingly threatened by climate change, rising sea levels, and salinity intrusion. Terrapins contribute to balanced aquatic food webs and healthier riverbanks, offering benefits that extend to fisheries and local livelihoods.
Forest officials have also worked closely with nearby communities, raising awareness and reducing threats from poaching and destructive fishing. This local involvement has been critical in safeguarding release zones and building long-term support for conservation.
Despite the progress, experts caution that the species remains highly vulnerable. Habitat degradation, illegal fishing, and river pollution continue to threaten long-term survival. Conservationists stress that breeding success must be matched with strong habitat protection if the terrapin is to establish a self-sustaining wild population.
Future plans focus on expanding releases, enforcing protection of nesting sites, and strengthening legal safeguards for river habitats. As more young terrapins mature, ensuring safe and stable rivers will determine whether this remarkable recovery becomes a permanent return.
The northern river terrapin’s journey from near extinction to cautious revival stands as a rare reminder that with sustained effort, scientific commitment, and community cooperation, even the most fragile species can be given a second chance.