Philippine Forest Turtle

Palawan turtle or Leyte pond turtle, this freshwater turtle is native to the Palawan islands of the Philippines. Because of habitat loss and too much catching by collectors, they have dramatically decreased in numbers.

Its vertebral scutes have a rather gingko shape. It also has a gradation of pale-white to yellowish coloration line to be found near its ears.

In Philippine folklore, "the turtle is accredited with extraordinary sagacity and cunning. It is another example of the type of tale showing the victory of the weak and cunning over the strong but stupid." - Mabel Cook Cole

Source: https://owlcation.com/stem/The-Top-Ten-Critically-Endangered-Animals-in-the-Philippines

This piece is a fundraising initiative to assist the financial expenses of two Filipino surfers from Liw-liwa Zambales for the upcoming 1st Leg of Philippine Surfing Championship Tour

For personal donation and other info please check this link (https://bit.ly/3oWjTtk).