The Ancient Sunbather: Indian Softshell Turtle

Basking under the soft glow of the morning sun, this Indian Softshell Turtle carries centuries of evolution on its leathery shell. I guess this one I saw is more than a 100 years old. Found in freshwater rivers and ponds across India, these turtles are among the oldest living creatures in their ecosystem, surviving in the wild despite increasing threats from habitat destruction and poaching.

The turtle basks on the lush green grass by the water's edge, its shell adorned with a layer of algae, blending seamlessly with its natural habitat.

Unlike the more familiar hard-shelled turtles, softshells have flattened, flexible shells that help them move swiftly underwater. They are excellent burrowers, often hiding in riverbeds with only their nostrils sticking out, waiting to ambush prey. Their survival tactics, honed over millions of years, are a testament to nature’s brilliance.

💡 Did you know? Softshell turtles play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems by cleaning up decaying matter and controlling fish populations. Unfortunately, they are often hunted for their meat and face severe population decline.

📍 Habitat: Rivers, lakes, freshwater ponds

📸 Photographer’s Thought: “There’s something humbling about seeing an ancient creature carry on—silent, steady, and resilient against time itself.”