Prosecutor intervenes after turtles found painted orange in Greece

A shocking act of animal cruelty has prompted a judicial investigation in Evkarpia, Greece, after four turtles were discovered painted with bright orange oil paint. The incident came to light when citizens reported seeing turtles in a residential yard. Members of the Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Team found the turtles confined to a house's yard, unaware of the harm the paint was causing.

The residents had collected the turtles from a fire-ravaged area, mistakenly believing they were offering them protection. Rescuers informed the owners that turtles are wild animals and belong in their natural habitat. They also explained that keeping them in homes poses public health risks due to potential bacteria like salmonella.

While authorities were being notified to arrange the turtles' return to nature, rescuers discovered four more turtles in a neighboring yard, this time coated in toxic orange oil paint. These animals were immediately rescued and taken to the Wildlife Care Center for specialized treatment and detoxification. Experts warn that oil paint can severely damage turtles, as their shells are living tissue integral to their bodily functions.

Authorities have alerted the public prosecutor, and an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances of the painted turtles' discovery and identify those responsible for their abuse.