Source: IE
Context: A critically endangered elongated tortoise was spotted for the first time in Haryana’s Damdama area in the Aravallis during a research survey.
This medium-sized tortoise, with a yellowish-brown or olive shell and black blotches, is typically found in Southeast Asia. It’s unusual to find this species in the Aravallis, and its presence may be linked to trade. The tortoise is listed as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List due to severe population declines caused by human activities.
About Aravallis:
The Aravalli Range spans 692 km from Gujarat to Delhi, with a width of 10 to 120 km. It acts as a natural green wall, 80% in Rajasthan and 20% in Haryana, Delhi, and Gujarat. The range is divided into two main sections: the Sambhar Sirohi Range and the Sambhar Khetri Range in Rajasthan, extending about 560 km. It serves as an ecotone between the Thar Desert and the Gangetic Plain. Gurusikhar in Rajasthan is the highest peak, at 1,722 meters.
