A Connecticut environmental education group is introducing nearly two dozen baby turtles rescued in Alaska.
SoundWaters Coastal Education Center in Stamford took in 22 turtles rescued from global wildlife-trafficking. SoundWaters says they were among 211 baby turtles stuffed into boots that were confiscated last fall from smugglers in Alaska. They were likely bound for China, where there is a lucrative market for turtles and turtle soup is considered a delicacy, according to a spokesperson.
The remaining turtles were taken to 13 other facilities in the United States.
SoundWaters said the 1-inch-to-2-inch patterned diamondback terrapins are now thriving. They are a protected species and have been returning to their native habitats in recent years.
Terrapins are the only marine species of turtle native to Connecticut.
SoundWaters has scheduled a media open house from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday.
