Ninja turtles may have made a comeback with the kids lately, but a turtle discovered in Berkeley Vale recently isn’t of the ‘cool’ kind.

A Red-eared Slider Turtle was found at a home in Berkley Vale this week, prompting Central Coast Council to renew its call for residents to keep an eye out for these pests.

Council’s Noxious Weeds and Pest Species Officer, Mr Paul Marynissen, said the warmer weather means the turtles are on the move.

“We have had unconfirmed sightings of Red-eared Sliders from across the Coast, including at Berkeley Vale, Kanwal, Tuggerawong, Hamlyn Terrace and Woongarrah and now one captured by a keen eyed resident in their backyard in Berkeley Vale,” said Mr Marynissen.

“With the weather warming up all reptiles, including these turtles, are more active and on the move looking for food, so we are more likely to spot them if they are here.”

Council is encouraging the community to keep an eye out for these turtles when they are out enjoying the natural environment, particularly around waterways.

“If you spot a turtle in the local environment, look for the distinct red markings over the ears, it’s a sure sign for these aggressive animals,” said Mr Marynissen.

“Red-eared Sliders are also distinctive in the way they retract into their shell. The Red-eared Slider will pull its head straight back into the shell, whereas native turtles have to curve their necks around.

“If you spot one of these turtles in or around our local waterways, please report it to Council immediately.”

The Red-eared Slider Turtle is one of the world’s worst invasive species. It is listed on the illegal pet trade and is illegal to possess or sell without a permit.

“This turtle competes with our natives for food and habitat, even eating the young of our local turtles,” Mr Marynissen added.

“The quicker we can capture and remove these animals from the local environment, the better it well be for the native species we have living here on the Coast.”