BOSTON (AP) — Two odd-looking Chinese marsh turtles raised for food in Asia have been seen south of Boston, and there’s concern they could eventually threaten local ecosystems if they become established in New England.
New England Aquarium experts say it’s possible someone released the animals after buying them for cooking. They urge people not to release non-native animals, and to report any sightings of the soft-shelled turtle.
Aquarium officials said Saturday that passers-by saw a turtle digging in the sand on Quincy’s Wollaston Beach this week. The aquarium’s marine animal rescue team picked it up. A second sighting was reported later in the week.
The aquarium’s president and CEO, Nigella Hillgarth, says the turtles have leathery shells and long, pig-like snouts they extend to breathe underwater. They can survive in cold climates.
New England experts concerned by sighting of invasive turtle
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