Spanish tortoises are facing a critical crisis. The Iberian Peninsula is home to just two native freshwater species: the leprous turtle (Mauremys leprosa<\/em>) and the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis<\/em>). Both species are in alarming decline, not only due to habitat destruction and hunting but also thanks to the overwhelming number of exotic turtles sold every year that often end up abandoned in natural water bodies, such as rivers and reservoirs.<\/p>\n Since 1997, efforts have been made to prohibit the sale of numerous exotic turtle species. However, these regulations have failed to keep the situation under control. People often replace banned turtles with other available species, leading to a growing population of exotic turtles in the wild.<\/p>\n The influx of non-native turtles has turned into a true plague, especially in Spain\u2019s interior provinces. For years, experts have warned that giving turtles as pets is not only irresponsible but detrimental to biodiversity. Each attempt to ban a specific turtle species has led to the emergence of new alternatives, which eventually find their way into the environment.<\/p>\n In a recent move to combat this issue, the Spanish Ministry of Environment expanded the Spanish Catalog of Invasive Exotic Species<\/em> in May 2025 to include the genera of turtles like Pseudemys<\/em> and Mauremys<\/em>, which had become popular in stores after the banning of Trachemys<\/em> turtles in 2013.<\/p>\n While there isn’t an extensive systematic study of the invasive turtle situation, numerous sightings and reports serve as evidence. For instance, in Salamanca, the presence of painted turtles and Florida red-bellied turtles is confirmed. In Extremadura, alarming statistics reveal that there are eight non-native turtles for every native one in the Guadiana River. Moreover, Catalonia has recorded over 160 individuals from 17 different invasive turtle species across various natural habitats.<\/p>\n The Florida turtle is not just a local issue; it ranks as one of the top 100 most harmful invasive alien species globally. Even after being banned for over 30 years across Europe, the destructive impact of this species continues unabated, contributing significantly to biodiversity loss worldwide. <\/p>\n If you currently possess a turtle at home, it’s crucial to understand the legal implications. It is only permissible to keep banned turtles if they were bought before the ban and declared to the relevant authorities. However, transferring, selling, or breeding these turtles is strictly prohibited, as is releasing them into the wild.<\/p>\n The challenge posed by exotic turtles in Spain is not merely about cute pets; it is a serious environmental issue that demands immediate action. As public awareness increases and regulations become stricter, it is essential for current turtle owners to act responsibly and seek alternatives rather than contributing further to this ecological crisis.<\/p>\nA Long-Standing Issue<\/h3>\n
A Plaguing Problem<\/h3>\n
Recent Developments in Regulations<\/h3>\n
Evidence of Invasion<\/h2>\n
The Florida Turtle: A Global Concern<\/h3>\n
What To Do If You Own an Invasive Turtle<\/h2>\n
Conclusion<\/h3>\n