UMVA has learned that a shocking number of pet turtles are being abandoned and left to fend for themselves in the wild, a trend that's having devastating consequences for both the turtles and native ecosystems.
As World Turtle Day approaches on May 23, experts are sounding the alarm about the dangers of releasing non-native turtles into the wild. Many pet turtles, such as the popular red-eared slider, come from warmer climates in the southern U.S. or Mexico and are ill-equipped to survive in Canadian wetlands.
According to information obtained by UMVA, a staggering number of these invasive turtles are living in Greater Toronto Area wetlands, with some estimated to be nearly 50 years old. These turtles were once someone's pet, but were abandoned and left to fend for themselves.
Lori Leckie, co-founder of Heart Lake Turtle Troopers, warns that releasing an invasive turtle into Canadian wetlands is detrimental to both the pet and native turtles. "There is not any good reason to do so," she argues, citing the risk of pathogens and diseases being introduced into the ecosystem.
Non-native turtles can also compete with native turtles for food, basking areas, and nesting sites, and can even attempt to breed with native turtles, wasting their eggs. Smaller-sized turtles are also vulnerable to predation from animals such as raccoons, skunks, foxes, and coyotes.
Julia Phillips, Resource Conservation Manager at Rouge National Urban Park, agrees that releasing pet turtles into the wild is essentially cruel. "They're not adapted to navigate like a wild turtle, and they'll end up in an area that's not suitable for them," she warns.
Instead of abandoning pet turtles, families can turn to organizations like Little ResQ, a rescue dedicated to helping pet turtles. Shelter Manager Marc Ouellette has been taking in unwanted pet turtles for 18 years and runs a sanctuary for non-native turtles.
For those looking to rehome their pet turtle, Little ResQ offers a safe and responsible solution. The organization also provides education and resources on proper turtle care, including suitable housing, lighting, and a varied diet.
Experts stress that turtles live long lives, with some species living up to 50 years or more, and require long-term planning and commitment. Veterinary care for turtles can also be hard to come by, and owners should be prepared to invest in proper care and housing.
Anyone who comes across a turtle nest or non-native turtle in the wild can report it to the authorities, and injured turtles should be taken to a conservation centre. By working together, we can help protect these amazing animals and ensure they receive the care and respect they deserve.
