Work

Movement and Space Use Patterns of the Beale's Eyed Turtle ( Sacalia bealei ) Suggest Sensitivity to Environmental Changes and Poaching

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Widespread declines of Asian freshwater turtles demand urgent conservation action. This study used radiotelemetry to track 25 individuals of the Endangered Beale's eyed turtles ( Sacalia bealei ) (12 females, eight juveniles, and five males) in Hong Kong for an average of 284 days. Movement (4.7 ± 8.9 m day −1 ) and home range (7986 ± 9701 m 2 ) varied significantly across reproductive class and season, with males exhibiting greater displacement distances and home ranges than females in the wet and mating seasons. S. bealei exhibits strong aquatic dependence, favoring deep pools interspaced among riffle‐pool sequences. Microhabitat selection varied diurnally and seasonally, with preferences for spatial elements that likely confer concealment advantages. The species' relatively large home range and aquatic dependence highlight its sensitivity to habitat loss and poaching, stressing the urgency for immediate protection of remnant populations. Conservation efforts must prioritize critical stream habitats and leverage telemetry data for informed action.

Source: Wildlife Letters

DOI: 10.1002/wll2.70037

Authors: Wing Sing Chan, Jonathan J. Fong, Timothy C. Bonebrake, Yik‐Hei Sung

Institutions: University of Hong Kong, Lingnan University, University of Suffolk

Language: English

Topic: Turtle Biology and Conservation

Subfield: Nature and Landscape Conservation

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Life on land

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,500