What’s killing off these turtles in Florida? FWC is asking for help with fatal virus
What’s making some Florida turtles sick?
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says some of the state’s native and nonnative freshwater turtles have been falling ill with TFV1 (Turtle fraservirus 1).
The virus was formerly known as Turtle Bunyavirus (TBV), which has been monitored since 2018.
According to a Tweet Friday, the “fatal” illness has been detected in such counties as Putnam, Lake, Seminole, Orange, Polk, Osceola, Brevard, Indian River and Collier.
The species affected include the common snapping turtle, softshells, cooters and sliders.
The FWC is asking for the public’s help: If you see a lethargic, sickly or “strangely acting” turtle, report it to the agency.
Clinical signs may include all or some of the following: weakness, lethargy, swollen, closed or sunken eyelids, discharge from the nose or eyes.
“Turtles with TFV1 may appear to have difficulty breathing, be reluctant to flee and swim irregularly,” notes the FWC.
To reduce the geographic spread and lessen the virus’ potential impacts, don’t transport the animal anywhere. Take a photo and send it digitally on the FWC Reporter App or call in the sighting at 352-339-8597.
As of now, there seems to be no possibility of human transmission, but you are advised not to eat turtles that appear unwell.
This story was originally published March 18, 2022 at 6:27 PM.
