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SATURDAY CRIME NIGHT � RISING CONCERNS OVER RED-EARED SLIDER RELEASES

Did you know that the red-eared slider (terrapin) – a species commonly spotted in Singapore�s parks and reservoirs- is actually not native to Singapore, and is in fact native to North America?

Often found for sale (legally) in pet shops as hatchlings, they are bought to be kept as pets. They are often on sale for just a few dollars, encouraging impulse-buying. Unfortunately, many people don�t realise that these tiny hatchlings – just 1.5 inches in length – will grow to 13 inches long in just a few years, or that they may live for 50 years or more.

Red eared sliders are also purchased for the purpose of �mercy release� (the act of releasing animals which is believed to generate good karma).

Huge numbers of red-eared sliders are imported into Singapore each year to be sold in pet shops, and many end up being abandoned in the wild by irresponsible owners or released for �mercy release�. There are now so many living wild in Singapore that they are competing with Singapore�s native turtle species for resources and are driving them to extinction.

Abandoning or releasing animals in public parks (and other areas) is illegal in Singapore.

Under the PARKS & TREES REGULATIONS, MANAGEMENT AND CONTROL OF NATIONAL PARKS, NATURE RESERVES AND PUBLIC PARKS – 10.�(1) No person shall, except with the approval of the Commissioner – leave, abandon or release any animal in a national park or public park.

If you find yourself unable to care for your pet, be responsible and find him or her a new, permanent home. ACRES does not encourage the purchase of red-eared sliders, as it is difficult to cater to their needs in captivity, but if you do keep them as pets, ensure that you are able to care for them for their lifetime.

And please never release an animal as a �mercy release�.

If you would like to join the ACRES Animal Crime Investigation Unit as a volunteer or intern, please click here to sign up: http://www.acres.org.sg/volunteer/volunteer-with-us.html

Or you may support our efforts to end animal cruelty by making a donation at http://www.acres.org.sg/support-us/donate-now.html

#ACRES #EndAnimalCruelty #AnimalCrimeInvestigationUnit #ACIU #RedEaredSlider #BeResponsible

Source: https://www.facebook.com/ACRESasia/photos/a.223077136522.136..

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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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