Updates On 29th Aug 2015

SATURDAY CRIME NIGHT � DID YOU KNOW? ENDANGERED PIG � NOSED TURTLES ARE STILL BEING SOLD AT FARMS IN SINGAPORE!

Native to Papua New Guinea, these fresh water turtles are known for their pig-like nose. Pig-nosed turtles are shy towards humans; however, they tend to be aggressive and highly territorial towards others of their kind.

Sadly, pig-nosed turtles are in high demand internationally as exotic pets, and for traditional medicine purposes and for their meat. This high demand has driven the intensive exploitation of this species. Although laws are in place to curb the trade, pig-nosed turtles are still being illegally traded in large numbers.

A total of 32 seizures of illegally traded pig-nosed turtles were reported between 2003 and 2012 worldwide, involving 81,689 individual turtles. An estimated 18% of the turtles died during the shipment period.

Recently, our Animal Crime Investigation Unit (ACIU) conducted a random site visit to aquariums/ fish farms in Singapore and discovered a farm selling a juvenile pig-nosed turtle for SGD220. The turtle was hidden away on a bottom shelf in a darkened corner of the shop. The seller informed our investigators that it is illegal to own a pig-nosed turtle in Singapore and advised to house it behind closed doors, away from the public eye.

The Animal Crime Investigation Unit has informed the relevant authority which is currently investigating the case.

Share this post with your friends and spread awareness about the illegal wildlife trade!

If you�d like to join the ACIU as a volunteer or intern, please click here to sign up: http://www.acres.org.sg/volunteer/volunteer-with-us.html

You can support our efforts to fight wildlife crime and end animal cruelty by making a donation at http://www.acres.org.sg/support-us/donate-now.html

Video Credit: ACRES

#ACRES #EndAnimalCruelty #AnimalCrimeInvestigationUnit #ACIU #WildAnimalsAreNotPets

Source: https://www.facebook.com/ACRESasia/videos/10153179507456523/

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ACRES

ACRES (Animal Concerns Research & Education Society) is a pioneering Singapore-based charity and Institution of Public Character, founded by Singaporeans in 2001 with the aim of promoting animal welfare.

ACRES has six focus areas: Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation, Wildlife Crime Investigation, Zoo Animal Welfare, Humane Education, Community Outreach and Promoting Cruelty-Free Living.

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