Terrapin at CBWP

[peregrine]

Does anybody have any idea if the relevant authority safeguarding wildlife at Cowpen Bewley Woodland Park is aware of the rather large red eared terrapin living in the small pond opposite the car park ? I viewed it recently in the pond which is being choked with another invasive plant  species. Doing a bit of Google research these terrapins can grow as large dinner plates and readily eat native fish, amphibians and birds eggs.

[IanF]

It's likely the same one that's been there 3-4 yrs now. Worth informing the warden Tommy Pybus as it will likely eat the newts. I thought it had been caught and removed but I could be wrong. though that one favoured the south end of the weed filled pool.
I've emailed him with your info. but if I see him I'll let him know. Though with him covering two reserves now I don't see him that often.

[peregrine]

Thanks Ian, judging by the size of it's head poking out from the pond it seems to have prospered fairly well if it's been there three years !

[IanF]

Three present this morning on the weed free pond by the car park.

I'm not sure whether these are the same ones as previously. The previous one I saw was on the weed filled pond and had an obvious 'red ear'. These don't

More discarded unwanted pets I suppose.

I've emailed the warden again.

[peregrine]

Three more ! Assuming the red eared critter is still around it may cause a problem given that any predator like a fox might struggle using a tin opener.

[Damian]

The one (s) that Ian has photographed are Yellow-bellied Sliders.

[IanF]

Heard back from Tommy today. He's aware there are actually four on the first pond and still one on the weed covered pond. He's already tried traps without success and has notified the council animal welfare section and is awaiting their suggestions.

[A McLee]

Don't count on the council for effective action. If we are not too tender hearted about the beasts and are really concerned about their impact on the ecosystem, and if someone is prepared to obtain permission, I know a stalker who can shoot them. I suspect early morning when they are hauled out to catch the early sun's warmth, is best. ( Remember the scene in " Cool Hand Luke" when Paul Newman holds up the snapping turtle shot by one of the chain gang guards? but perhaps not so impressive in this case).

[peregrine]

This is the red eared terrapin that I saw. It's head and neck approx 2 inches long.

[Baron Von duck]

Hiya guys I'm sure they are other options open other than sending Tom Berenger  in at dawn..... I have a number of a turtle rescue centre in Durham that may help you with this problem 0191 4472768 also you will find it very difficult to catch  terrapin in a cage trap due to they nature I have personally caught them on rod and line using a large barbless hook you can tease them in without  permanent damage as they can't swallow the hook if they see you tho it's all over ...   Good luck


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk