Two rare specimens of the critically endangered Asian Giant Tortoise (Manouria emys) were recently rescued and handed over to forest authorities in Tamenglong district.
The reptiles, locally known as Leikang Thengu in Manipuri and Guiphop in Rongmei, were surrendered to the Tamenglong Forest Division by concerned individuals from remote villages.
One of the tortoises, weighing approximately 16 kg, was brought from Vanchengphai Village by the Sub-Divisional Officer of Tousem, Paul Nangsha (MCS). Another tortoise, weighing around 5 kg, was handed over by a youth from Tongtao Village, Simeon Gangmei.
District Forest Officer Kharibam Hitler Singh and Range Forest Officer Joel Gangmei, along with forest staff, received the tortoises and confirmed that both reptiles are in healthy condition. They are slated to be transferred to the Manipur Zoological Park under the care of its Director, Shri Laishram Birmangol Singh.
