A star-shelled tortoise was rescued from a fast-spreading ground fire in the Amrabad Tiger Reserve in Telangana, where forest staff fought a 20-hour blaze in the Domalapenta range. The fire, which spread near the national highway passing through the reserve, burnt fallen leaves over around 60 hectares before being brought under control. The rescue brought into light the vulnerability of slow-moving wildlife during forest fires and the importance of rapid response in protected areas.
Forest Fire in Domalapenta Range
Forest staff and watchers battled the fire for nearly 20 hours in the Domalapenta range. The blaze was close to the highway that cuts through the reserve, increasing the risk to wildlife and nearby forest patches. Though the fire was not extensive, it caused damage to the leaf litter across about 60 hectares.
Rescue of the Tortoise
A medical officer travelling on a two-wheeler spotted the tortoise crossing the road near the fire zone. He picked it up to protect it from the advancing flames and carried it to the forest department office in Achampet. The tortoise was then handed over to forest staff for safety.
Threats to Slow-Moving Wildlife
Ground fires are especially dangerous for slow-moving species such as tortoises, ground-nesting birds and some snakes. Such animals often cannot escape quickly when fire spreads through dry forest litter. The incident underlines the need for early fire detection and wildlife rescue during the dry season.
Conservation Significance of Star-Shelled Tortoise
The star-shelled tortoise is listed as a vulnerable species by the IUCN. It is also heavily targeted for the pet trade. The Nallamala forests, part of the Amrabad Tiger Reserve, are among its natural habitats in Telangana, making fire protection important for its conservation.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026