Forum: Relook import and trade of terrapins
Over the years, animal welfare organisations and the public have voiced concerns on the sale and ownership of red-eared sliders, a type of terrapin .
The enactment of animal protection laws like the Animals and Birds Act does not appear to be effective in deterring the high abandonment rate of these terrapins.
There is also little to prevent impulse buying.
These terrapins are usually sold as cute, tiny juveniles in aquarium shops islandwide for a few dollars each.
A manual count on just one terrapin adoption Facebook group reveals that 79 terrapins were put up for adoption over March and April . Common reasons include space and time constraints, moving house and relocating abroad.
Abandonment is also a serious concern. It was reported in 2024 that a pond at Punggol Point Park had turned turbid and reeked on hot days, owing to its population of abandoned terrapins.
It is also not uncommon to find pet terrapins kept in small plastic tubs with minimal water and under poor husbandry conditions for years. This can lead to health conditions like shell abnormalities.
Isn't this a form of animal cruelty?
Several countries like Australia and Japan and the European Union have banned the import and trade of these terrapins. Isn't it time for Singapore to seriously relook the importation and regulate their trade too?
Sarah Seow
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