A recent television news report stated that red-eared sliders (a semi-aquatic turtle) were illegal to sell or own in Maryland. An animal control officer stated on camera that no one should own these turtles because they carry salmonella. This report is misleading.

All reptiles carry salmonella as part of the normal bacterial population in their bodies. The risk of getting infected with salmonella from a reptile is much less than salmonella infections obtained from improperly handled poultry products.

Red-eared sliders are indigenous to the eastern United States and a popular pet for turtle-lovers. It is not illegal to own this species. It is illegal in Maryland to sell a slider that is less than 4 inches in diameter. No one who owns a slider should be concerned about breaking the law.

Jeffrey L. Rhody

Laurel

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