Urgent turtle ban to protect native plants and animals

A turtle pest found near a west Auckland beach has been killed but biosecurity officers say urgent action is needed to ban them from New Zealand.

The red-eared slider female turtle was first spotted in the Waitupu Stream in Bethells Valley two months ago by an alert landowner but it was only caught last week.

The turtles are banned in Australia, England and EEC countries but not New Zealand, where they are regularly sold in pet shops.

They are aggressive with a painful bite, are prolific breeders and are known to carry diseases.

Red-eared slider turtles have been classified as an extreme threat to native plants and animals.

Auckland Regional Council biosecurity officer Greg Hoskins said it cannot be allowed to become established in New Zealand.

The turtles enjoy basking in the sun but are very edgy around people, disappearing under water if people get too close, Mr Hoskins said.

The Bethells turtle was thought to have been released by someone who bought it, unaware of its aggressive behaviour when it matured.

Mr Hoskins said the find was a big worry.

"They would affect our native fish, they would eat our crayfish, dragon fly larvae and are also very fond of ducklings.

"They would impact on our native wildlife and our vegetation. They are definitely a threat."

He said some of New Zealand's endangered bird species could be wiped out if the turtle became established.

It was "crazy" that some a pest could be sold in pet shops, he said.

"Something needs to be done."

Mr Hoskins said the turtle had also probably been released in the Waikato River and appealed for people to report any sightings.

The turtle can grow to the size of a small rugby ball and is identified by a red stripe behind each eye.

- NZPA