Alligator-snapping turtle found at Cumbria lake

The turtle is not normally found outside of Florida

Author: Cameron HallPublished 10th Feb 2024
Last updated 10th Feb 2024

An alligator-snapping turtle has been found at a lake in Cumbria.

The turtle, which is normally found in swamps in Florida, was spotted by several people at Urswick Tarn.

The dinosaur-like species get their appearance from their armour-style shells.

They have jaws strong enough to bite through bones.

It was picked up by Urswick Parish Councillor Denise Chamberlain, who reportedly put it in a shopping basket and took it to Wild Side Vets in Barrow.

The turtle is now in their care.