70 terrapins rescued from Taipo River are waiting in SPCA clinics for families to adopt them

Families willing to adopt terrapins are asked to contact the SPCA. Inspectors of the society recently found 70 terrapins in Taipo River. They had been dumped as part of a misguided “mercy release”. All of the creatures had words scribbled on their shells in red paint. Some of the terrapins are now at SPCA Sai Kung waiting for homes. You may go to see them if you wish to adopt.

An SPCA spokesman said these animals are believed to be victims of illegal wildlife trafficking. “Mercy releases” are misguided because the creatures may be non-native and unsuited to the local environment; the released animals may threaten survival of native wildlife and spread diseases; and negative ecological consequences may result.

The 70 terrapins rescued from Taipo River are being cared for at various SPCA centres, including Sai Kung, and many after veterinary checks are now ready for adoption. If you are willing to adopt call 2232 5529.

How to look after terrapins, by RSPCA Britain

Terrapins are hard-shelled small turtles that live about 30 years. You need to be able to care for them for their entire lives.

A terrapin should be housed in a large tank or aquarium or a secure outdoor pond. The creatures need good heating and lighting, so you must have good equipment. They require a “basking zone” to warm up and an area to cool down. At 7 – 12% reptile lamp should shine UV on two thirds of the tank. The small turtles must have constant clean water so you need a powerful filtration system. Use water testing kits to check the water is low in ammonia and nitrite.

The diet of a terrapin should be varied. Dried terrapin food should be served with defrosted freshwater fish and live invertebrate foods. They should also get vitamin and mineral supplements.

Don’t pet terrapins, especially when they are young and fragile. If you have more than one terrapin they need extra space so they don’t become aggressive towards each other.

Terrapins require a lot of attention if they are to stay healthy. Talk to a vet, especially a reptile vet, and consult websites of reputable organisations such as SPCA of Hong Kong and RSPCA of Britain.