Rudrapur, April 7 -- A softshell turtle was found at an altitude of around 2,950 feet (about 900 metres) in Bageshwar district, prompting the forest department to consider conducting a survey to determine how the reptile reached the area. According to forest officials, the presence of a softshell turtle at such a height is uncommon as the species is generally found in plains and riverine ecosystems. Divisional forest officer of Bageshwar, Aditya Ratna, said, "Sighting a softshell turtle at a height of around 900 metres is an uncommon incident. Generally, they are found up to around 600 metres, particularly in landscapes within the Ganges basin". The turtle was spotted on Thursday by a resident of Bhanartoli village in Bageshwar, in a seasonal stream. Officials said it was released back into its habitat after medical examination. "We are mulling a survey and study whether more such turtles are present in area where it was found. If more are spotted, a conservation plan will be prepared accordingly," Ratna said.htc...