Unlike their teenage mutant ninja brethren, London Zoo’s Annam leaf turtles don’t have to battle evil overlords – but they still face a fight for survival.
These particular heroes in a half shell have been given a new kitchen-themed home to highlight the threat their species is under.
Originating from Vietnam, Annam leaf turtles are considered a tasty delicacy, and due to severe over-hunting for the restaurant trade and habitat loss, they are now classified as critically endangered and facing extinction.
Zookeepers have designed a new home for their turtles on the theme of a restaurant kitchen, with the turtle pool resembling a kitchen sink, a ‘bubbling’ soup pot and woks hanging on the wall.
They hope it will be an interesting attraction for visitors while also sending a message.
Ben Tapley, team leader of the reptile house at ZSL London Zoo, said: “We’ve gone to town on the new Annam leaf turtle exhibit here at ZSL London Zoo, as we want our visitors to really understand the threats facing these animals.
“Providing a great habitat for these beautiful turtles, with water for them to swim in and a secluded nesting area hidden behind a carefully positioned wok, the creative exhibit tells a serious story.
“It has been estimated that more than 10 million turtles are being traded for food, traditional medicine and the pet trade each year in Asia.
“Breeding programmes and zoo populations like ours here at ZSL London Zoo, are becoming increasingly important in guaranteeing the existence of these animals for the future.”
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