“The released tortoises are marked and tagged with very high frequency-based telemetry system to study their dispersal and survival in deep rainforests. Once the pilot release is successful, more individuals will be released in this landscape to recover the decimated wild populations”, said Sushmita Kar, project coordinator, ITCP. Prior to transportation, the tortoises underwent comprehensive health checks and quarantine for over six months.A turtle and tortoise corner at the community hall was inaugurated during the event, which displays important awareness signages and efforts made by the locals to assist this project. Officials said such community-based and participatory initiatives marked an important milestone in the Naga culture and posed as an important conservation model across the region. Authorities said the district administration would take special measures for the long-term protection of the released tortoises in and around the site. With communities staunchly protecting such endangered wildlife, the conservation message echoed louder than ever—how wildlife conservation can be intertwined with the daily lives.
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