Huge alligator snapping turtle found in Birmingham

A fisherman in Birmingham got a huge surprise this week when he hooked a two foot long, four stone turtle.

Steve Bellion was fishing for carp at Earlswood Reservoir, near Birmingham when he caught the massive reptile on the end of his line. Bellion managed to land the monster and it was taken to the West Midland Safari Park where it was identified as an 80-year-old female alligator snapping turtle, usually native to the southern states of the U.S.

The reptile is in quarantine at the moment, but will eventually be rehoused at the safari park with a male companion.

The turtle is clearly a pet that has been dumped by it’s previous owner. It may have been in the reservoir for some time as tales of ducks being attacked and lines being cut have plagued the area for quite a long while.

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