Geographical Range Pakistan and India to Malaysia (southern Asia)
Habitat Rivers
Scientific Name Chitra indica
Conservation Status Endangered



The narrow-headed softshell rarely leaves the water, except during nesting season. A female hauls herself onto a sandy beach and lays her eggs -- 60 to 110 at a time!

Despite its relatively high reproductive rate, the narrow-headed softshell is in danger of extinction in the wild. The species is captured in huge numbers and sold as food or medicine in Asian markets. Though there are some international laws designed to limit the turtle trade, these laws need much better enforcement if they're to be effective.

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