GLOUCESTERSHIRE ECHO (Cheltenham, UK) 23 September 06 Paul Is Doing His Bit To Save A Rare Turtle
Paul Coleman is helping to preserve a rare turtle species.Paul, a teacher at Dean Close School in Cheltenham, has built up a large collection of rare tortoise and turtle breeds since the 1980s.
He owns the only three golden coin turtles in the UK, which are predicted to become extinct in the wild in two years.
He was contacted by the International Centre for the Conservation of Turtles on behalf of Munster Zoo in Germany to further their breeding programme.
The endangered breed is a key ingredient in guilinggao, a Chinese medicinal dessert made from turtle jelly.
The turtles are extremely valuable and are frequently poached and sold for up to £2,000.
The golden coin is one of the world's most endangered turtle species.
It is found across Asia including in Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar and Southern China.
One of Paul's male turtles has been found a mate at Munster Zoo and the ICCT hopes to breed more.
Paul, who lives in Tewkesbury, said: "Conservation of these rare creatures is essential. There's no hope for them in the wild.
"The problem is mainly poaching. The turtles are killed, dried and smuggled into China where they are used mainly for their medicinal properties.
"These turtles are so valuable that it's like winning the lottery for poachers."
Emlar Mier, one of the top European experts on turtles, has been leading the German breeding program.
Paul said: "I'm delighted to be able to help.
"These Asian turtles are one of the most endangered species on earth."
Paul began collecting tortoises and turtles at the age of 20.
Now the tortoise conservationist keeps 250 in seven tropical sheds in his garden.
Paul was on hand earlier this month at a free tortoise health check session organised by the Three Counties Tortoise Society.
He is a leading council member of the British Chelonian Group.
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