An unusual discovery was made in Ulverston when a dog walker found a small alligator snapping turtle in Urswick Tarn. The creature, which has been nicknamed Fluffy, is typically found in swamps and rivers within Southern parts of the United States. Despite being out of its usual environment, the turtle appears to be in good health and is being cared for by wildlife experts.
Dominic Moule, a veterinarian, spoke to the BBC about the discovery and explained that alligator snapping turtles are not native to the UK. It is believed that Fluffy may have been a pet that was abandoned by its owner. The species is notoriously difficult to care for and requires expert knowledge to ensure that it is living in optimal conditions. Without the correct conditions, alligator snapping turtles can quickly become ill or die.
It is not uncommon for exotic animals to be released into the wild by pet owners who can no longer care for them. However, doing so poses a number of risks including disrupting the balance of local ecosystems and putting the animal’s welfare at risk. In the case of Fluffy, it is fortunate that she was found and is now being cared for by experts who have the knowledge and skills to look after her properly.
It remains unclear how Fluffy came to be in Urswick Tarn and what the future holds for her. However, her discovery has sparked a discussion around the ownership and care of exotic pets, and the importance of considering the implications of releasing them into the wild. Hopefully, this will lead to more responsible pet ownership and better protections for exotic animals
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More