Delavan Turtle Dies After Brutal Beating
A Delavan turtle has died following a brutal beating. The snapping turtle was found injured at the Delbrook Golf course in Walworth County, Wisconsin.
The female turtle was hit at least four times, most likely with a golf club. Officials with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources report that the turtle suffered serious injury to her head and her shell. While turtles are often harmed by vehicles and other wildlife, they are rarely found beaten.
As reported by WISN, the Delavan turtle was taken to a facility in Fendoria that specializes in reptiles. Veterinarians who examined the turtle found that she was carrying approximately 30 eggs.
Despite the efforts of everyone involved, the Delavan turtle has now died.
As reported by the Journal Sentinel, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals and the Global Conservation Group of Watertown have pooled their resources to offer a $6,000 reward for information about the attack. The turtle was beaten on Monday morning between 7:30 and 9:30 am.
In Wisconsin, common snapping turtles can be found in and around water sources including lakes, rivers, and ponds. The turtles are primarily known as predators, feeding on small fish and bugs. They are often feared as they have a pointed beak-like mouth and powerful jaws.
As reported by Arkive.org, snapping turtles face numerous threats including pollution, habitat depletion, and overexploitation. Hatchlings are in danger of being eaten by birds and fish. Adult common snapping turtles may become tangled in fishing nets or injured by vehicles while crossing the road.
Unfortunately, the Delavan turtle’s life was cut short by a senseless and brutal attack. Conservationists estimate that the turtle was likely beaten with an iron golf club due to the extent of the injuries.
The Delavan turtle has died, but authorities are still interested in finding the person responsible. Anyone with information about the attack is encouraged to contact the Department of Natural Resources Hotline at (800) TIP-WDNR or (800) 847-9367.
[Image via Wikimedia]
