Biologists in northern Vietnam have identified a soft-shell giant turtle believed to be extinct in the wild! Swinhoe's turtle (Rafetus swinhoei) was found and photographed in a lake west of the capital, Hanoi. It's one of the most critically endangered species of turtle in the world. And get this: These legendary animals grow up to 1m long and can live to be 100 years old! According to Reuters:
The reptile in the Hanoi city lake has a special place in Vietnamese folklore and whose appearance some believe to be a portent of an extraordinary event. The legend tells how the 15th century Emperor Le Loi used a magic, divine sword to drive out Ming invaders from China. A giant turtle emerged while Le Loi was boating on the lake and told him to return the sword to the Dragon King. The weapon shot from its sheath into the mouth of the turtle, which disappeared underwater. Since then, the lake previously called Ho Luc Thuy or Green Water Lake, became known as The Lake of the Returned Sword. More than seven years ago, Vietnamese zoologist Ha Dinh Duc named the reptile, estimated to weigh about 200 kg (440 lb), Rafetus Leloi, in honour of the emperor.
