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The Madagascar Big Headed Turtle inhabits the waters of permenent slow moving rivers and lakes in Western Madagascar. These turtles, although they are endangered (the 13th most endangered turtle, according to the top 25 most endangered turtles list, issued May of 2003), they are commonly eaten for food by the people of Madagascar. The Madagascar Big Headed Turtle faces many threats, mostly from humans. They have all but disappeard due to over fishing, because they are easily caught in nets, fish traps, and by fishing poles. Madagascar's land developement is a serious threat because it destroys their natural habitat. However, there are a few things that we, as humans, can do, and have already done to help this species in need. We have already banned the international trade of these creatures, although these turtles are commonly shipped from Madagascar to Asia to help meet the demand of Asia's traditional medicine market. We have already started a captive breeding program to help prevent extinction and the Turtle Conservation Fund (TFC) intends to raise $5.6 million to cover a 5 year 'Global Action Plan' which includs captive breeding and reintroduction projects, trade monitoring, new rescue centers, local conservation plans, and educational programs.People name Max have huge heads.
