The Torre Flavia Marsh, a protected natural area between Ladispoli and Cerveteri, is back in the spotlight due to an unusual discovery that worries experts. Within a few days, two specimens of snapping turtles were identified, a species not belonging to the local fauna and considered potentially dangerous.
The first discovery occurred during an event organized by the MareVivo association, when some volunteers reported the presence of the animal. The police intervened, called to recover the specimen. But just as the operators were completing the intervention, another group of volunteers spotted a second snapping turtle, found a short distance from the first. The discovery also surprised the operators of the reserve, because in a few days two animals of the same species emerged in a relatively limited area.
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Four specimens found in the last three years
The numbers tell an even more significant story. In the last three years, four specimens of snapping turtles have been recovered in the same protected area, a fact which for those responsible for the reserve can no longer be considered random. The last two animals recovered had similar dimensions, with a carapace of around 30 centimetres, plus a robust head and limbs. A size very close to that of the specimen found in 2025.
The first individual found in the swamp, about three years ago, was much larger: a female with a carapace of about 50 centimetres. This detail led experts to formulate a disturbing hypothesis: the new specimens could have been born directly in nature, probably children of the large female identified previously.
An alien species that can cause problems
The snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) is native to North America and is classified as an allochthonous species, that is, foreign to local ecosystems. Its presence can represent a threat both to the biodiversity of the marsh and to the people who frequent the area.
These animals are known for their extremely powerful bite and ability to react with great speed when they feel threatened. For this reason, the volunteers and operators of the reserve have launched an appeal to visitors and hikers: do not approach the animals and immediately report any sightings.
The swamp is increasingly a habitat for invasive species
The Torre Flavia Marsh, a wetland area of ​​approximately 43 hectares, is one of the most delicate natural environments on the Lazio coast. In recent years, however, the territory is becoming increasingly exposed to the presence of invasive species. In addition to snapping turtles, nutrias, gambusias, parakeets, invasive crayfish and blue crabs have been reported in the area. Animals which, if not controlled, can alter the balance of the ecosystem. For this reason, operators are working on projects to remove alien species, with the aim of protecting one of the most precious natural environments on the Roman coast.
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