Taipei rescues 130 turtles, celebrates World Turtle Day

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — In response to World Turtle Day, the Taipei City Animal Protection Office announced on Thursday (May 23) that it has rescued 130 turtles since January, including native species under conservation. The office urges the public to report found turtles instead of releasing them into the wild.

World Turtle Day, celebrated annually on May 23, aims to raise awareness about the conservation of turtles and tortoises and the issues of habitat destruction. The Taipei City Animal Protection Office highlighted the importance of proper handling of found turtles.

Citizens are encouraged to call the 1959 animal protection hotline for expert advice on the turtle species and appropriate release locations. The office also advises against feeding, disturbing, or touching wild animals and suggests uploading photos of the turtles to the "Taipei City Government LINE@" for assistance, emphasizing that turtles should not be released into water bodies on one's own or kept as pets.

Turtles come in a variety of species, including common pet turtles like map turtles, African spurred tortoises, invasive species such as red-eared sliders, and native species like the Chinese box turtle. The reasons for public reports of turtle rescues vary, with injuries and concerns over slow-moving turtles at risk of being run over by vehicles being the most common.

The Taipei City Animal Protection Office's initiative on World Turtle Day not only highlights the plight of turtles in urban environments but also educates the public on the importance of conservation efforts. By providing a hotline and guidance, the office aims to foster a community that is more informed and proactive in the protection of these vulnerable species.