Mongabay · Climate & nature

Turtle Conservationist Sabine Schoppe Dies at 63

Sabine Schoppe, a biologist renowned for her work protecting the endangered Palawan forest turtle, has passed away at 63. She established conservation programs and rescue efforts for the species.

In 2015, officials seized over 3,800 endangered Palawan forest turtles from a warehouse. Many were injured and stressed due to crowded conditions.

Schoppe organized an emergency response, creating makeshift shelters and an emergency pond. She collaborated with international specialists for care.

A German biologist, Schoppe moved to the Philippines in 1995. She held a professorship in aquatic and marine biology.

The Palawan forest turtle's habitat was unknown until found in Palawan. They are vulnerable to collectors due to their burrowing near water.

Schoppe co-founded the Katala Foundation, initiating its turtle and pangolin programs. She established a rescue facility and the first protected area for the turtle.

The 2015 confiscation highlighted Schoppe's preparedness. Over a thousand turtles required extensive care for severe ailments. She also developed post-release monitoring.

Schoppe received conservation awards, including the Behler Turtle Conservation Award, which she was too ill to accept shortly before her death.

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