Fly River turtles, also known as pig-nosed turtles, have very distinct features including bulging eyes and a snout, distinguishing them from your average Canadian turtle. And this one had been through the wringer, likely on its own for months.
Experts at Reptilia, a reptile zoo facility, say cases like this one are common: exotic pets being released into the wild when owners can’t care for them.
RELATED: This can be a deadly time for one of Canada’s ‘most endangered’ wildlife groups
Locals Rick (left) and Heather Kennedy (right) were the first to spot the endangered turtle on Wasaga Beach. (Source: Leigh Hendricks/provided)
“It has significant damage to its shell,” shared Ashley Maika, Community Engagement Coordinator at Reptilia, who helped treat the turtle. “It had zebra mussels coating its skin all over the top and bottom. And she’s underweight, so she’s been out there for quite some time.”
Releasing exotic pets into the wild can pose serious threats to both the animal and native wildlife.
“[Owners of exotic pets] can’t find a home for them, and they do the next thing that they think is best, and they send it outside,” she added. “It’s no longer their problem. Unfortunately, it is sealing their fate. Without human intervention, they won’t make it through the winter.”