Deadly virus affecting Florida softshell turtles prompts FWC to issue protection order

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission issued an order last week to temporarily stop the take or transport of all freshwater softshell turtle species or yellow-bellied sliders in the state.

The regulation changes were made to help conserve freshwater turtle species that continue to be affected by a fatal disease caused by a virus called Turtle Bunyavirus (TBV).

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FWC said the virus has been detected throughout the state in the following turtle species: Florida softshell turtles, peninsula cooters, Florida red-bellied cooters, yellow-bellied sliders and red-eared sliders.

Officials said all currently permitted activities may continue under the executive order, including the purchase and transport of turtles from registered breeders, with proper documentation.

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Members of the public may also continue to bring sick or injured turtles to wildlife rehabilitation facilities for evaluation, treatment and TBV testing.

The FWC began monitoring TBV in 2018 due to reports of sick and dead freshwater turtles.

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Officials said resident are not to touch or attempt to move any sick turtles.

Anyone looking to transport a sick or injured turtle sound contact the FWC Turtle Hotline at 352-339-8597.

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