The Turtle Village (Mu Ban Tao) is a unique and fascinating place located in Ban Kok, Mancha Khiri District of Khon Kaen Province, approximately 50 kilometers away from Muang District. This village is known for its harmonious coexistence between the villagers and the Tao Pek, also known as the Tao Lueang, which refers to the elongated tortoise. These turtles are a special species that can be found in various regions of thailand, including the north and northeastern areas. They are commonly found in forests and mountains, preferring damp and cold environments.
The Tao Pek gets its name from its diet, which consists mainly of Pek grass, a type of vegetation commonly found in its natural habitat. These turtles have a high shell resembling a soldier’s helmet, and when fully grown, they can reach lengths of over 30 centimeters and weigh more than 7 kilograms. Their shells are yellow with dark patches, and the males have curved shells while the females have flat shells. The turtles have large scales on their skin and strong, short, and round hind legs that resemble elephant legs. They also have strong nails and no fascia between their fingers.
One interesting fact about Tao Pek is that their age can be determined by counting the rings on their scales. This method is only applicable to turtles that are under 20 years old, as older turtles would have too many rings to count. The mating season for Tao Pek occurs during the late rainy season and lasts for 1-2 months. The female turtles lay their eggs on the ground, using their hind legs and shells to dig a hole that is about half the depth of the egg. They typically lay around 4-6 eggs in each hole, and it takes approximately 3-4 months for the eggs to hatch. The newborn elongated tortoises have soft shells and are only about 3-5 centimeters long. However, their shells become hard when they reach around 1 year old.
Legend has it that the Tao Pek turtles have been living in Ban Kok since the establishment of the community in 1767. The villagers believe that there is a spirit of a big old man wearing all white who resides in the village and has the Tao Pek turtles as his servants. The turtles are often found near Chao Phu (Don Tao) shrine, which covers an area of about 4 Rai. This shrine is dedicated to worshiping Chap Pho Mahesak and consists of Chao Phu Fah Ra Nguem shrine and the Phra Phut tower. Don Tao, the area where the shrine is located, is abundant with bamboo trees, and the fallen bamboo leaves create the perfect habitat for Tao Pek turtles. Due to their association with Chao Phu Fah Ra Nguem, the villagers refer to these turtles as Mahesak turtles and consider them to be sacred. As a result, no one in the village dares to harm them, and if someone unintentionally harms a turtle, they must apologize to Chao Phu.
In the Turtle Village, the residents do not build high walls or fences around their houses, as they want the turtles to be able to freely roam and access their homes to feed, rest, or lay their eggs. The turtles have become a part of the village’s ecosystem, and other animals living in the area have grown accustomed to their presence. The villagers and the turtles have developed a mutual understanding and respect for each other, and they coexist peacefully.
One interesting observation is that the number of Tao Pek turtles in the village has been steadily increasing over the years. Currently, there are over 2,000 turtles in the Don Tao area, which has led to insufficient food supply for them. As a result, the turtles have started to seek food in nearby villages. However, due to the sacred status of these turtles, no one dares to harm them. There is a story circulating in the area about a man who ate a turtle and died the next day, further reinforcing the belief in the sacredness of the turtles.
In conclusion, the Turtle Village in Ban Kok is a unique and enchanting place where humans and Tao Pek turtles coexist in harmony. The turtles, with their distinct appearance and behaviors, have become an integral part of the village’s culture and spiritual beliefs. The villagers’ respect and reverence for these turtles have created an environment where both humans and animals live together peacefully. The growing population of Tao Pek turtles in the village is a testament to the successful conservation efforts and the strong bond between the villagers and these sacred creatures.
Address And Location:
Suan Mon Mancha Khiri Khon Kaen 40160