(c) Chris Davis - Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (www.arc-trust.org)

<i>Emys orbicularis</i> .European Pond Tortoise
   
Emys orbicularis .European Pond Tortoise
   
This species of terrapin was native to the UK some 8000 years ago but is believed to have become extinct. Occasional specimens are captured from the wild, most from a fairly small geographic area. It is just conceivable that these animals might represent a remnant native population. This specimen clearly shows the yellow markings typical of the species on the legs and head. The shell pattern is obscured by mud - but terrapins do seem to have a liking for water that can be thinly sliced!