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East Devon turtles

Printed From: Reptiles and Amphibians of the UK
Category: Alien & Naturalised species of the UK
Forum Name: Aliens
Forum Description: Concerning non-native species that should be removed from the wild
URL: http://www.herpetofauna.co.uk/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=5004
Printed Date: 29 Mar 2024 at 11:01am
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 11.06 - http://www.webwizforums.com


Topic: East Devon turtles
Posted By: Suzy
Subject: East Devon turtles
Date Posted: 15 Dec 2015 at 10:51pm
Not sure if any of you have seen this:

http://www.sidmouthherald.co.uk/news/warning_about_releasing_unwanted_pets_at_bystock_pools_1_4343902

This was a nice nature reserve for a few years. It was run, maybe still is, by the Devon Wildlife Trust. Dogs were banned, which made it more pleasant in every way. Sure there were still a few who broke the rule, but the lovely meadows could be enjoyed for the flowers and butterflies, and the heathland for reptiles. Grazing by ponies could be a bit awkward if you met them in a confined space, but they seem to be a preferred management tool on many heathland spots now.
Then the dog ban was lifted and I don't visit any more - too many off the lead rampaging animals and having to watch where you step.
The pool where these turtles are is a wonderful place for dragon and damselflies.


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Suz



Replies:
Posted By: Suzy
Date Posted: 17 Dec 2015 at 8:11am
I might have made a clanger here calling them turtles, as the article calls them terrapins. I've looked up the difference, but I'm still not quite clear. 

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Suz


Posted By: Iowarth
Date Posted: 17 Dec 2015 at 6:18pm
If you're an American Turtle=Terrapin which frequently = Tortoise

Generally with us Turtles are mainly marine and have flippers, while terrapins have ordinary (albeit sometimes webbed) feet and are generally far more amphibious and are generally carnivorous. Tortoises are land living and generally vegetarian! (actually both are omnivorous but lean heavily one way or t'other. Generally speaking, as you might expect of water dwellers, terrapins have much flatter shells than tortoises.

Having said which - everything has exceptions - these are general rules! For example, the Americans have Box Turtles which are as aquatic and carnivorous as most terrapins but shaped like tortoises. Also, the animal in the article picture, which we would call a red-eared terrapin, the Americans call a red-eared slider. Confused now? Don't worry, we all are!

I tend to solve the entire problem by referring to all of them as crusty meat pies - but, that's my sense of humour for you!
Chris


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Chris Davis, Site Administrator

Co-ordinator, Sand Lizard Captive Breeding Programme (RETIRED)


Posted By: Suzy
Date Posted: 17 Dec 2015 at 11:29pm
Thanks for clearing that up ChrisConfused !

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Suz


Posted By: Iowarth
Date Posted: 19 Dec 2015 at 12:02am
I just knew you'd be pleased!  Ermm

Happy Xmas

xx


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Chris Davis, Site Administrator

Co-ordinator, Sand Lizard Captive Breeding Programme (RETIRED)



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