Shelter for turtles

Problem

It is estimated that about 200,000 turtles have been abandoned in Dutch nature. They often die there after long periods of starvation and pose a threat to the local flora and fauna. The turtle species involved is the pond slider. This species has 3 known subspecies, namely the red-eared slider, cumberland slider and yellow-bellied slider.

Solution

To help these turtles, Faunawatch has started a turtle sanctuary in Maastricht. We have obtained a permit from the central government to take care of these invasive turtles. As many turtles are very sick on arrival as a result of poor nutrition and/or housing, our priority is to get their health as optimal as possible. Both turtles that have been dumped and turtles abandoned by their owners are given a new home at the shelter. The turtles will first be placed in quarantine. There, they will be examined clinically and parasitically. They will also be microchipped. Next, they will enter the large holding ponds where they will be allowed to spend the rest of their lives. During the winter, the turtles are housed indoors. Read more about housing here.