An exotic fresh water turtle was found at North East Point recently by a resident of North Point.

The fresh water turtle, identified as Red-eared slider and scientifically named Trachemys scipta elegans, was seen on the road by Colette Gillieaux who had to suddenly stop her car to avoid crushing it.

Concerned for its safety, she placed the turtle in a plastic container she had in her car and took it home with her.

A number of people she showed the turtle to said that it was one of the local Terrapins or ‘Soupap’ except for one who told her that it looked unusual.

She then took the turtle to the local veterinary service and upon verification, they found it to be aggressive and had sharp teeth.

Curious to know more about the turtle, Mrs Gillieaux brought it to the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources and after days of examination, Selby Remie informed her that the turtle was an exotic and dangerous species not found here.

After some research, the Conservation Section in the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources discovered that the Red-eared turtle is found in countries in North and South America and is used a lot in pet trade for its aesthetic appearance.

According to the section's research, the turtle is most recognisable by its bright colour when still young. The top of the shell (carapace) is smooth and gently curved and is olive to black with yellow stripes and bars. It is a medium-sized turtle that can be identified by a red or sometimes yellow patch just behind its eye.

Previously in 1995, one Red-eared turtle was seen at Beau Vallon and the ministry believes that they are being bred in home aquariums and ponds. 

Conservation officer Wilna Accouche said that because Red-eared turtles survive in the fresh water eco-system, if introduced in Seychelles it will be in direct competition with our fresh water turtles (Terrapins or ‘Soupap’).                                                                                                           

“The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources reminds the general public that it is an offence to smuggle any type of organism in the country taking into account that these creatures such as the Red-eared turtle can destabilise our fragile eco-system beyond repair,” said Ms Accouche.   

However, Ms Accouche said that some people had been very cooperative in providing the ministry with information or reporting unusual creatures and for this they wish to thank them.

The Ministry of Environment and natural Resources is also making a special appeal for people to use the green line to report any unusual creatures they come across for the good of our natural environment.

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