Of Shells and Plates – The Indian Pond Terrapin

The Indian Pond Terrapin, also known as the Indian Black Turtle is a medium-sized still-water species widely found in India and several neighbouring countries. 

In cities, one can find them swimming or basking on rocks in our local lakes. As one of the key species in wetlands, the presence of these turtles can indicate a healthy lake ecosystem due to their consumption of carrion among other species. These little helpers are however facing a threat with dwindling lakes in the city. With only a handful of wetlands left in the city, urbanisation is rendering several wild animals homeless and eventually push them to the brink of being yet another addition to the endangered species list.

As a wildlife rescue and conservation centre operating in Bangalore, PfA has rescued nearly 200 Pond Terrapins to date. Rescued for causes of displacement, illegal captivity, illegal pet trade and road accidents, these reptiles must survive against all odds.

With 25 years of wildlife veterinary experience, PfA has been successful in the treatment and rehabilitation of terrapins. In most cases of injuries, the primary cause is road accidents. Since shells of Pond Terrapins are sturdy, it is unlikely for them to suffer a fracture upon being run over by small vehicles. However, cars and trucks are well capable of causing some serious fractures. In another unexpected case, we rescued a Pond Terrapin that suffered multiple fractures on its shell after surviving a fall from the fourth floor of a residential complex in Bangalore.

The informer, a member of the Indian Railway Police had confiscated the terrapin while on duty in Nagpur and kept it on his terrace. The Terrapin then took an unfortunate fall following which we were called in immediately. 

Following an examination, medications were provided to treat the injuries and trauma. Treatment began with the application of medical glue to fix the shell, but it couldn't hold the cracks together, following which surgery had to be performed. Following the careful administration of anaesthesia, the team of veterinarians then operated on the pond terrapin and lightweight, state-of-the-art titanium plates were used to repair the shells. Five plates were used — two on the dorsal surface and three on the ventral surface. These plates are very expensive but are lightweight. They are erosion-resistant and strong enough to hold fracture ends in place without causing much tissue damage. 

One side of the terrapin's shell had broken and sunk to about an inch and bring it together was quite a challenge. Following constant monitoring of its health status, the surgery lasted about three hours. 

The downside to the recovery of chelonians in case of fractures is TIME. Depending on the severity of the injury, it can take anywhere between months to even years until it completely heals. 

Wetlands are home to rich biodiversity. They also provide a wide range of ecosystem services such as flood control, storage and purification, prevent soil erosion, regulate microclimates among others.

For us to save Pond terrapins in cities, the first step is to protect our wetlands and revive lakes. The next step includes awareness among citizens on the benefits of these species to a healthy city. The final step is to learn the art of coexisting with wildlife in cities. 

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As submitted to Ex-situ, CZA.