Balancing conservation and traditional use of yellow-spotted river turtle (Podocnemis unifilis) in Southern Rupununi, Guyana

The yellow-spotted river turtle (Podocnemis unifilis) is found across the Amazon, Orinoco, and Essequibo River basins, serving as an important resource for local communities through food, income, and cultural traditions. While studies from the Amazon and Orinoco regions highlight conservation challenges, less is known about its population dynamics in the Essequibo River basin. This study assesses turtle and egg consumption, population trends, and sustainable management strategies in South Rupununi River, Guyana, focusing on how conservation can align with community needs. Interviews with 125 Wapichan households in Sand Creek reveal that 12.0% of households collect an average of 41.87 eggs annually, while 22.4% of households harvest an average of 3.32 turtles per year. Larger households tend to consume more turtle eggs and meat, and those engaged in turtle harvesting report higher consumption levels. Most turtle captures occur for food consumption, particularly during cultural events, though turtles are also used for local trade, pets, and shells.

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