Turtle severely swollen due to poor diet

A swollen and very poorly turtle was abandoned in a park in Stoke-on-Trent.

The musk turtle was found still in its tank by a member of the public, who then contacted the RSPCA.

The animal was suffering from lymphoedema, thought to be the result of a poor diet.

The turtle is now recovering. Credit: RSPCA

He is now being cared for by a vet but was said to be in a 'terrible state' and had been suffering 'for some time'.

The musk turtle was found in Hartshill Park on Wednesday (30 August). The member of the public who found the turtle contacted the RSPCA, who transferred the turtle to an exotics vet.

Anyone who would like further information on how to care for exotic animals should visit www.rspca.org.uk/exotics,