Dahl's Toad-headed Turtle (Mesoclemmys dahli)

Mohamed bin Zayed Species project number 192520378

ETHNO-PROGRAM FOR THE SUSTAINABLE CONSERVATION OF THE TURTLE CARRANCHINA (Mesoclemmys dahli), IN COLOMBIA.

The Carranchina turtle conservation project, initially funded by the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund with $10,000 and later supported by additional funding of $25,000, has made notable contributions to the protection and recovery of this critically endangered species. .

One of the fundamental goals of the project was to increase the population of the Carranchina turtle in the Zenú indigenous territory. An increase of 250 individuals has been achieved, a significant increase if we consider that the global number of mature individuals was less than 250 prior to the project. This result has been possible thanks to the implementation of a series of protection measures, habitat management and controlled reproduction.

The project has also involved the training of 500 Zenú indigenous youth, including a gender parity with 50% female participants. Training topics spanned biodiversity conservation, sustainable use of natural resources, and ecosystem restoration, preparing the next generation of conservation advocates.

32 km² were declared as protected natural areas by administrative decree, which provides additional protection for the habitat of the Carranchina turtle. In addition, 12 specimens of the Carranchina turtle were monitored through satellite telemetry, providing valuable data for the knowledge of their ecological corridors and behavior patterns.

The communication and dissemination of the project has been an essential component. Approximately 5,000 people nationally and internationally were informed about the progress and activities of the program, which has helped to increase awareness and support for the conservation of the Carranchina turtle.

A prominent element of the project has been the creation of an environmental corporation run by the trained Zenú indigenous youth. This strategy has allowed for the continuity and sustainability of conservation efforts in the long term. Emphasis has also been placed on strengthening the role of indigenous Zenú women in conservation, expanding their participation in operations and leading environmental initiatives.

In addition, the project has stimulated the local economy through ecological and forestry tourism, achieving a 10% increase in the number of visitors in the Zenú territory. This increase in tourism activity has promoted a greater appreciation of local biodiversity and has contributed to the income of the community.

Finally, the project has contributed to scientific knowledge through the completion of at least one conservation impact study. This work has been peer reviewed and provides valuable data on the impact of the program on the recovery of the Carranchina turtle population.

In summary, despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, the project has achieved significant achievements in terms of Carranchina turtle conservation, local community empowerment and sustainability promotion.