A spokesman said: "By placing the animal into this pond the owner has endangered its life." The 4in (10cm) terrapin, the only one of his kind at the sanctuary, stood out due to his unique appearance.

Just as likely the kids got bored and went on to another latest craze. Thousands of pet turtles and terrapins got dumped in rivers, lakes and ponds. Most died but a few flourished, some even managed ...