The Burmese roofed turtle is an endangered endemic species known only to live in the Ayeyawady, Chindwin, Sitaung, and lower Thanlwin rivers, where it was historically reported to be common. However, rampant egg collection, conversion of nesting beaches into seasonal agricultural fields, and chronic over-harvesting of adults by fishermen have led to long-term population declines. Furthermore, water pollution in the Chindwin River may change the habitat of these turtles The species will need monitoring in the coming years, said Myo Min Win a project manager for the Wildlife Conservation Society and Turtle Survival Alliance. Flooding of the upper Chindwin River, where these roofed turtles live, filled the river with waste water. Some aquatic animals were killed by the water pollution. Moreover, beaches where roofed turtle usually lay eggs were flooded, which may affect the ability of turtles to reproduce. As there was flooding and heavy pollution in the river, the turtles are not able to breathe. The water is filled with garbage, so there is less oxygen for them to breathe. They are forced to come to the surface to breathe, where humans can easily capture them. In addition, they can be killed by motor boats. The small fish they eat are getting rare due to water pollution. I have informed villages along the Chindwin River to let me know if they find any dead turtles, said Myo Min Win. Roofed turtles were thought to have gone extinct in Myanmar until 2001, when they were discovered near Linphar village in Htamathi sanctuary, on the upper Chindwin River. Since 2005, the WCS, TSA and forestry department staff implemented a conservation programme along the upper Chindwin River. Today, there are about 800 roofed turtles in Myanmar. At least 26 species of freshwater turtles and tortoises are known to occur in Myanmar, half of which are endemic.