The Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) reported the seizure of 320 red-eared slider turtle hatchlings (Trachemys venusta) that were being illegally transported on a passenger bus. The finding took place at a checkpoint on the Mexico-Puebla highway, as part of an operation to combat the trafficking of wild species.
The seizure occurred on March 22nd, when Profepa inspectors, with the support of the National Guard, stopped a bus for a routine inspection. During the inspection, they found a box with 320 turtles, whose accreditation document showed irregularities, leading to their confiscation.
According to the agency, the Mexico-Puebla highway was selected as a control point due to its importance as an entry route for transportation from the southeastern part of the country. This region is known for its great biodiversity, but it is also one of the most affected by the illegal trafficking of species.
Safe destination for rescued turtles
After the seizure, the specimens were transferred to a Center for Wildlife Conservation and Research (CIVS), where they will receive the necessary care for their recovery and eventual relocation to their natural habitat.
The red-eared slider turtles are a freshwater species that inhabit bodies of water in Mexico and Central America. They are illegally captured for commercial purposes, posing a threat to their natural populations.
More operations to stop species trafficking
In total, during the operation, 65 passenger buses, two cargo vehicles, and a private car from Chiapas, Tabasco, Veracruz, Oaxaca, and Puebla were inspected.
Profepa’s head, Mariana Boy Tamborrell, reiterated the institution’s commitment to fighting wildlife trafficking and announced that random operations will continue at various points across the country.
“We are committed to stopping this crime and protecting wildlife populations from the huge impact of illegal extraction,” she stated. Species trafficking is one of the main threats to biodiversity in Mexico. The illegal extraction and commercialization of fauna not only affect wild populations, but can also pose health and ecological risks. Operations like this are key to protecting the country’s natural wealth and halting the illicit trade of protected species.
What are the characteristics of red-eared slider turtles?
The red-eared slider turtle (Trachemys venusta) is a aquatic turtle native to Central America, of medium size that can reach up to 48 cm in length and weigh up to 5 kg. Among its distinctive features are its oval-shaped shell, olive green in color, with irregular yellow, orange, or black lines. Also, its head is dark brown with yellow lines, as well as its legs. Furthermore, its skin is a dark green shade.
These animals prefer to inhabit freshwater areas, such as rivers, lakes, and ponds, with abundant vegetation, so it is common to find these turtles in swampy areas. The diet of red-eared slider turtles consists of a wide variety of insects, crustaceans, plants, leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds.
Due to overexploitation of the species in recent years, experts believe that these turtles need special protection and sustainable management to ensure their survival.
Source: Big Fish.
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