Illegal turtles seized at airport

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It is the second time in two months that turtles have been smuggled into the North West

More than 80 painted turtles have been seized at Manchester Airport.

The 87 live southern, western and eastern painted back turtles were seized by UK Border Agency (UKBA) officials at the airport on Thursday.

A spokeswoman for UKBA said the creatures, although not a protected species, were banned from being imported into the European Union.

The turtles, which are as small as a 50 pence piece, have been temporarily re-homed at Blackpool Zoo.

They can grow up to 10in (25cm) and live for up to 20 years in captivity.

The importers of the reptiles need a special licence, which these did not have.

It is reassuring to know that high levels of vigilance are maintained Jude Rothwell, Blackpool Zoo

A spokeswoman for UKBA said: "In the absence of the correct documentation the turtles were seized. This is to protect the natural biodiversity of UK and EU.

"Animals imported for the pet trade are tightly regulated."

The turtles were seized after they had arrived in Manchester in a commercial load from the US.

More than 50 similar turtles which were seized at the airport in October have also been re-homed at the Lancashire zoo.

Jude Rothwell from Blackpool Zoo said: "Blackpool Zoo management and staff are always willing to co-operate in the temporary re-homing of any exotic species confiscated at the airports and ports in the region.

"It is reassuring to know that high levels of vigilance are maintained in order to prevent... the trade in endangered species."