Act: Exotic turtle caught on the loose in ACT

AAP General News (Australia)
12-01-2004
Act: Exotic turtle caught on the loose in ACT

An American turtle has been discovered in Canberra, sparking fears of the species getting
into the Murray-Darling system.

ACT Chief Minister JON STANHOPE says a single red-eared slider turtle has been discovered
in a suburban Kaleen backyard, prompting immediate action from Environment ACT.

He says it's the second isolated case of the turtle being found in the ACT.

Mr STANHOPE says the red-eared slider turtle could be a serious pest in Australia,
beating native species for food and space.

The turtle has also been discovered in Queensland.

AAP RTV dep/sb/ved/rt

KEYWORD: TURTLE (CANBERRA)

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