Of Marsh Terrapins and Their Double Life

With a rainy season that is beyond expectations and that has incurred local flooding all over Southern Africa, some animals and reptiles can get displaced by unexpected flash floods. Limpopo-Lipadi’s research manager Botilo came across a stranded terrapin on the main road outside of the Reserve. The terrapin was rescued and lived to see another day, and hopefully a long and happy life in our Reserve. Read Botilo’s story:

“Marsh terrapins are amphibious reptiles that thrive both in and out of the water. They belong to a rare family of turtles found in sub-Saharan Africa.

Driving into Tsetsebjwe from Sefophe, we came across a terrapin seemingly trapped on the tarmac while attempting to cross the road. The odds were stacked against it—it was likely to be run over by the next vehicle had we not made a U-turn to rescue it. We carefully placed it in the back of our bakkie and released it into Tholo Dam, offering it a lifeline.

The moment it was set down at the water’s edge, it wasted no time—it crawled onto the shore and burrowed into the mud, as if heading straight into hibernation.

Marsh terrapins are omnivorous, feeding on aquatic plants like algae while also snacking on small water invertebrates for protein. We couldn’t have chosen a better place to give this hand-sized turtle a second chance at life. Perhaps, one day, it will find a mate and establish its own little dynasty in the waters of Tholo Dam.”

If you would like to support our conservation efforts, have a look on our website: https://limpopo-lipadi.org/donate/. For discreet information on share sales, contact generalmanager@limpopo-lipadi.org. To book a safari, request our rates via reservations@limpopo-lipadi.org or via WhatsApp: (+267) 76770191.