It’s the 1980s and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise has burst onto the scene, scoring millions of young fans.  

Half-human, half-turtle fighters Donatello, Leonardo, Raphael and Michelangelo originated as comic book characters before spawning phenomenally popular films and cartoons.  

But “turtlemania” also inadvertently sparked a pet craze that ultimately led to an invasive species problem.  

Red-eared terrapins were a particularly popular pet. But many people didn’t realise they would grow from a matchbox-sized hatchling to a dinner-plate sized adult that lives for more than 40 years.  

   

As a result a significant number of freshwater turtles were illegally released in the late 80 and 90s. 

Rosie joins Turtle Tally UK’s Suzie Simpson to uncover the wild origin story of how invasive freshwater turtles became a familiar sight in our waterways.

 

 Quick breathers, calming walks or heart-pounding hikes. We feel better when we get out more.    

 Find quality kit and 50 years of outdoor wisdom. Plus, supporters save 15% in-store and online. Feel in your element, in the elements, at Cotswold Outdoor.    

Production:  

Host: Rosie Holdsworth  

Producer: Michelle Douglass  

Sound Editor: Jesus Gomez  

Contributor:  

Suzie Simpson, Turtle Tally UK 

Image: 

(c) Suzie Simpson / Turtle Tally UK

Discover More: 

Head to Turtle Tally UK citizen science project to discover more about freshwater turtles in the UK and submit your sightings 

https://www.turtletally.co.uk/ 

Find out about the National Trust’s work protecting our waterways and how you can help 

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/our-cause/nature-climate/climate-change-sustainability/protecting-coasts-and-rivers

The National Trust cares for places so people and nature can thrive. Everyone can get involved, everyone can make a difference. Nature, beauty, history. For everyone, for ever. You can donate to us at https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/donate

Follow Wild Tales nature podcast on your favourite podcast app or Youtube @nationaltrustcharity. And join us on Instagram @wildtalesnt.

If you'd like to get in touch with feedback, or have a story idea you’d love to hear, contact us at [email protected]