Auckland's turtle pest more widespread than first thought

A turtle pest with the potential to seriously damage native plant and animals is far more widespread than originally thought, say biosecurity officers.

Since a red-eared slider turtle was caught in the Bethells Valley west of Auckland several weeks ago, Auckland Regional Council staff have been told of a lot more.

ARC biosecurity officer Greg Hoskings said they were surprised at the level of the turtle population.

He has said urgent action is needed to ban the turtles from New Zealand to prevent their becoming established and threatening native plants and wildlife. They are banned in several countries but can be sold in New Zealand as pets.

The aggressive turtles have a painful bite, are prolific breeders and can carry diseases. They are an extreme threat to native plants, native fish, crayfish, dragon fly larvae, ducklings and other birds and wildlife.

Mr Hoskings said some endangered bird species could be wiped out if the turtle became established.

- NZPA