top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon
Explore
arrow down

Dangerous exotic turtles found in France

Unusual reptiles found along the Canal du Midi near Toulouse (Haute-Garonne, Occitanie) have been identified as dangerous alligator snapping turtles, with local residents advised to be alert. 

The turtles were first spotted on May 4 along the banks of the canal at Ramonville-Saint-Agne (Haute-Garonne) by a family living on a canal boat. They reported three small turtles each around 3cm long to the police, who contacted the French office for biodiversity to identify them.

The police officer explained: “They had three rows of spikes clearly visible along their upper shells. The specialist quickly identified them as alligator snapping turtles.” 

Alligator snapping turtles can weigh up to 100kg when fully grown, and have strong, spiked jaws that can cause serious injury. They are a carnivorous reptile, commonly found in North America. 

It is thought the turtles found in France were released into the wild by humans. 

Read more: Wild boar numbers spike in France due to confinement

Read more: Imperial eagle recorded for first time in Charente

 

Common snapping turtles also found 

Police in the Haute-Garonne have since confirmed finding another exotic species, the common snapping turtle, roaming near a playground in the Parc de Cinquante, around 9 km from Toulouse. 

The common snapping turtle, which is also carnivorous, can be dangerous to humans too. 

In a Facebook post, local police wrote that the 25cm-long turtle “seemed a little scared, but could become fierce if disturbed and inflict serious injuries".

They also warned locals not to play with any reptiles they find in the area.

The turtle is now being looked after by the Zoo de Mescoules in the Dordogne (Nouvelle-Aquitaine). 

Related articles:

Extra care needed on forest walks in France

Help to identify songs of birds in France

Join battle in France to stop butterfly extinction

Stay informed:
Sign up to our free weekly e-newsletter
Subscribe to access all our online articles and receive our printed monthly newspaper The Connexion at your home. News analysis, features and practical help for English-speakers in France

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Income Tax in France 2023 (for 2022 income)*
Featured Help Guide
- Primarily aimed at Britons, covers pensions, rent, ISAs, shares, savings and interest - but also contains significant general information pertinent to readers of other nationalities - Overview of online declarations + step-by-step guide to the French printed forms - Includes updates given automatically after this year's site opened
Get news, views and information from France