THE RSPCA shelter in Huncoat has just taken in an unusual stray -- a terrapin.
Steven Carpenter, deputy manager at the shelter, said the 7ins creature was found crawling along Abbey Street in Accrington.
"People buy them for a couple of pounds when they're the size of a 50p piece, but don't realise they can grow as big as a dinner-plate, " Steven said.
"When they do, they unfortunately sometimes get thrown out."
Fully-grown terrapins need the space of a 5ft-6ft fish tank or a garden pond in an enclosed garden -- they can wander off!
Steven said: "Terrapins were originally warm-water creatures but they have adapted to survive in cold water.
"They should always be handled wearing rubber-gloves as they can carry salmonella."
If you can offer this particular stray a good watering hole, telephone the RSPCA shelter on 01254 231118 or call in at Holter House Farm, Whinny Hill Road, Huncoat, between 9am-4pm except Thursdays.
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