A rare Cantor’s giant softshell turtle is now under care at the DENR-CENRO office in Calanasan after it was found in Barangay Capanikkian on Thursday.
The turtle, weighing 10 kilograms and measuring 47 centimeters, was discovered by a local fisherman who handed it over to authorities, Dorothy Joy Cayaba, officer in charge of CENRO-Calanasan, said Friday.
Cantor’s giant softshell turtles are listed as endangered globally by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and recognized as threatened under DENR regulations due to declining populations in the wild.
Fully grown turtles of this species can reach up to 1.7 meters in length and weigh around 250 kilograms, according to wildlife experts.
Cayaba said this is the first documented sighting of the species in the Apayao River after it was accidentally caught along a river tributary.
“The resident immediately turned over the turtle to DENR. This allowed the animal to receive proper care and reflects growing local efforts to protect wildlife,” Cayaba added.
The turtle was initially examined by the Apayao Provincial Veterinary Office and later transferred to the Laoag Veterinary Clinic for a full medical check. During the assessment, it was discovered that the turtle was carrying eggs, showing that the species is still reproducing in the area.
Authorities said the presence of the Cantor’s giant softshell turtle highlights the ecological importance of the Apayao River and the surrounding Biosphere Reserve, known for its rich biodiversity and well-preserved natural habitats.
