Endangered turtles have arrived at Zurich Zoo amid ongoing conservation efforts.

The new arrivals include three species - the Annam pond turtle, the radiated tortoise, and the radiated three-keeled turtle - which will be housed at the sanctuary as part of ongoing initiatives to safeguard wildlife.

Experts say the additions are a significant step toward the zoo's long-term goal of housing only endangered or scientifically valuable species.

The Annam pond turtle, the smallest of the trio, is critically endangered, with as few as 50 to 100 individuals left in the wild. Native to Vietnam, the species faces threats from habitat destruction, illegal trade, and hybridisation with related turtles.

It is now under strict protection in its native country, with European institutions, including Zurich Zoo, participating in breeding and reintroduction efforts.

Once widespread across southern Madagascar, the radiated tortoise is now at risk due to habitat loss and the illegal pet trade.

Easily recognised by its striking star-patterned shell, the tortoise has seen its population dwindle drastically in recent years, with only a small reserve population remaining.

The third species, the radiated three-keeled turtle, inhabits rivers in Asia and is under severe threat from pollution, fishing nets, and illegal harvesting.

Zurich Zoo now cares for 15 juveniles as part of a breeding initiative aimed at bolstering the species' future.

The zoo said that the new arrivals call attention to the critical need for global wildlife protection and affirm its ongoing commitment to conservation efforts.