Institution is only Zoo to Successfully Breed Species  

ATLANTA - May 1, 2007 - Zoo Atlanta officials announced details of the hatching of an Arakan forest turtle on April 25, a species native to the Arakan hills of western Myanmar. An additional egg remains unhatched and animal management staff continues to monitor its progress.

Last seen in 1908, and thought to be extinct, during the early 1990’s live specimens were discovered in Asian food markets. Scientists believe that the significant decline in their numbers has come about as a result of their popularity as a food source and medicinal use.

Recognized as a worldwide leader in reptiles and amphibians, a breeding pair was brought to Zoo Atlanta in 2001 to allow scientists to learn more about the species and facilitate breeding.  This latest hatchling represents the third consecutive year Zoo Atlanta has been successful in breeding the species. 

With only twelve live specimens in North America, Zoo Atlanta is one of only four institutions to have this turtle species in its collection. Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, SC, the St. Louis Zoo in St. Louis, MO and Miami Metrozoo in Miami Florida also have the species. Of these, only Riverbanks and the St. Louis Zoo have breeding pairs, but to date they have not successfully bred.

“We are thrilled at this birth, but saddened by the dire situation this species faces in the wild , “said Dr. Joseph Mendelson, Zoo Atlanta curator of herpetology. “We hope to tell the story of the Arakan forest turtle and use it to educate the world about the importance of sustainable food sources.”

The adult Arakan forest turtles can currently be viewed by visitors during Zoo Atlanta’s normal operating hours in their habitat inside the Reptile Building.

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