Guwahati, Aug. 23 -- Questions surrounding the rescue and subsequent release of an exotic red-eared slider turtle in the Digboi forest range of Tinsukia district have led wildlife conservationists to call for stronger scientific assessment and coordination with the Forest Department before rescued animals are returned to the wild.

Wildlife conservationist Devajit Moran raised the issue in a social media post on Sunday, stressing that rescue operations should be based on proper identification of the species, an understanding of its habitat and a clear assessment of whether intervention is necessary.

Moran said wildlife rescue should not be undertaken without first understanding the species involved, its ecological requirements and the ci...