YEARS ago, they used to sell those very cute little green turtles. Then, at one point in time, they decided that these turtles carried salmonella and they discontinued the sales.

Does anyone know the status of these turtles to date?

Thanks!

Hi Tree,

I spent a great deal of time reading humane society, government, and fancier web sites, and this is what I learned.

Scientific name: Trachemys scripta

These green turtles commonly known as “red-eared sliders” are native of the central part of the United States. According to a fisheries commission web site they are becoming increasingly low in numbers in native areas, while at the same time a ecosystem problem in introduced areas such as Florida.

In areas such as Louisiana and Mississippi record numbers of hatchlings are sold in the international pet trade industry and adults are heavily harvested for the meat. There is great concern because these animals are harvested from the wild and it is having an impact on their numbers.

Laws regarding the sale of such turtles are somewhat vague. It is commonly understood that the shells of the turtles must be 4 inches in length before sale as a pet. Must not be sold commercially. But one can still obtain, and own the turtles.

In the 1970’s when there was a boon on the sale of red-eared sliders, it was then reported of the number of reptiles that carried the salmonella bacteria. It has been noted that it was a common belief that the turtles carried the bacteria from birth. A study showed that the type of care received from the time of capture to the time of sale to the public was sub-optimal.

Many pet shops or street venders simply lacked the knowledge to properly care for them. Stress and the lack of proper food contributed to the acquiring of the bacteria. Stale lettuce and moldy bread were thought to be ok to feed, however, such feed developed the bacteria. The turtles were not affected by the bacteria and so became carriers. Children who handled the turtles became infected and the FDA was forced to place a ban on the sale of baby turtles.

Turtles fall under the category of being an exotic pet, due to the type of care needed. They are not recommended as a pet for small children. It is highly recommended that after handling any turtle that one wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.

Realize before you purchase that not all pet shops or breeders are knowledgeable about the feeding and caring for turtles. Read many care sheets online or books from your library before purchase.

WOW, piggins!

Thank you very much for your research! Sounds just like the turtles that I was asking about! Good work!! That explains a lot!

what states do not ban the sale of little green turtles?

The only state to ban sale of these turtles completely is Florida. Florida just recently put the restriction in place. Florida residents who already have a RES turtle may keep it for its lifetime. But to purchase a replacement, the word is no.

The reason Florida passed this new law is that people were or are setting these turtles loose when they no longer can care for them. This act creates a hardship for already existing species which are all competing for the same food and space and they are crowding out native wildlife.

As for the other states you may not purchase a turtle or sell one that is less than 4 inches. Once it reaches 4 inches in length, you can indeed buy or sell it in any state except Florida.

The reason you can not purchase any RES less than 4 inches is basically because children are less inclind to put them in their mouths. Also because the animals were subject to carelessness due to childrens ages and lack of knowledge on how to care for them. In the 70's, it was hoped that by the time the turtles grew to 4 inches, that the younger children would loose interest in them and thus they wouldn't be purchased carelessly. There are groups that are lobbying to get the law changed due to better husbandry practices by commercial breeders. The law may change soon, but don't hold your breath.

Turtles are part of the reptile groups and reptiles can and do carry salmonella bacteria. So it is very important that you keep the animals away from your face and do wash your hands after handling any turtle or reptile.


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