● Red Crowned Roofed Turtle is one of the 24 species endemic to India, is characterised by the bright colours such as red, yellow, white and blue on the faces and necks of the males.

● It is a freshwater turtle species found in deep flowing rivers with terrestrial nesting sites.

● The Red-crowned roofed turtle is native to India, Bangladesh and Nepal.

● Historically, the species was widespread in the Ganga River, both in India and Bangladesh. It also occurs in the Brahmaputra basin.

● Currently in India, the National Chambal River Gharial Sanctuary is the only area with a substantial population of the species, but even this Protected Area and habitat are under threat.