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A recent sighting of red-eared slider turtles in a paddock at Aka Aka has renewed calls for residents to be vigilant.
Awaroa Ki Karioitahi Landcare chair Willy Muir said the turtles were spotted in Aka Aka about 300 metres away from the nearest water source.
“These turtles will cause considerable damage to freshwater ecosystems if left in the natural environment. Please be vigilant and let us know of any sightings. If possible, capture with care, and contact the regional council.”
Waikato Regional Council pest animals lead Kathryn O’Toole said the council receives reports of red-eared slider turtles in the wild across the region periodically, and they are widespread in some parts of the Waikato.
“Unfortunately, red-eared slider turtles originally bought as pets are sometimes deliberately released, which is illegal and comes with a substantial fine of up to $5,000. Many of these former pets are now established and breeding in the wild.
“One of the world’s 100 worst invasive species, red-eared slider turtles are omnivorous, long-lived and tolerate a range of environmental conditions. If anyone sees a red-eared slider turtle in the wild, they should report it to the Waikato Regional Council on 0800 800 401.”
Meanwhile, across the border, Auckland Council head of natural specialist services Dr Imogen Bassett said red-eared sliders are the most popular pet turtles; however, they can grow very quickly and outgrow home aquariums.
“Some owners think they’re doing their pet a favour by setting it free outdoors.
“Unfortunately, this can be dangerous for the turtle as well as the environment. As omnivores, turtles eat a wide variety of aquatic plants as well as fish, baby birds, insects, lizards and frogs, putting more strain on an already stressed ecosystem.”
Red-eared sliders can no longer be bred or sold in the Auckland region, Bassett said.
“Anecdotally, we know that the numbers of red-eared sliders are increasing in many of our natural waterbodies around the region, because of the dumping of unwanted pets.”
