Hunting of endemic and threatened forest-dwelling chelonians in the Western Ghats, India

摘要: This study investigates the hunting of two endemic and threatened terrestrial chelonians, Cochin forest cane turtle (Vijayachelys silvatica) Travancore tortoise (Indotestudo travancorica) in Western Ghats region India. Informal interviews were conducted with indigenous non-indigenous communities Forest Department officials to understand dynamics chelonian existent rationale beliefs that supported it. Chelonian consumption was among both communities, but higher former. Indotestudo travancorica exploited a larger extent than Vijayachelys silvatica. Both species used as cure for piles asthma, increase body strength largely captured during collection non-timber produce fire management activities. These chelonians also sold local hotels served customers known on personal basis minimal transfer urban areas. Conservation action needs be prioritised towards I. travancorica, by upgrading its IUCN Red List status, through increased interaction between improve conservation landscape.