IT may not be on quite the same scale as the Loch Ness Monster, but its giant presence in the Northwich countryside is threatening to destroy a local nature reserve.

A red-eared terrapin measuring more than 25cm in length has caused a stir among local bird spotters after it was seen lurking in Budworth Mere last week.

The giant reptile, possibly the largest one seen in the wild in Britain, is believed to have been abandoned by an irresponsible pet owner when it became too big to handle.

Dave Walters, a bird recorder for Marbury Country Park, who discovered the turtle, said: "When they are in the wild they will eat everything in sight, from small fish and bird eggs, to fairly unusual and rare species of dragonfly.

"If someone was to release another terrapin and they were to breed, it would be disastrous."

A second red-eared terrapin, which is easy to recognise because of the small red flashes on both sides of its head, was also spotted over the weekend at Anderton Nature Pond.

Chris Veer, spokesman for Chester Zoo, said: "Anybody who takes a terrapin hatchling must undertand that they can grow quite large, almost up to the size of a dinnerplate.

"They are not to be bought casually. Anyone who has a terrapin which becomes too big to handle should not dump them, but call the RSPCA or a local vet as they might be able to find people who are reptile enthusiasts."

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