The Nature Protection Service (Seprona) of the Civil Guard in Gandía has intercepted an illegal shipment this week containing 20 specimens of Geoemyda spengleri, commonly known as black-breasted leaf turtles. This species is listed in Appendix II of the CITES Convention and is regarded as one of the smallest turtles in the world.

The parcel, sent from China, lacked the mandatory documentation and was transporting the animals in appalling conditions. Several turtles were already dead on arrival due to stress, mishandling, and the length of the journey. The turtles were concealed inside socks and placed among stuffed toys.

Geoemyda spengleri, native to Southeast Asia, does not exceed 15 centimetres in adulthood and requires highly specific environmental conditions for survival. As a CITES Appendix II species, its international trade is strictly regulated. Importing these animals without the proper permits constitutes a serious offence with potential criminal consequences.

Following the discovery, the surviving turtles were urgently transferred to Terra Natura Benidorm, a leading centre in the conservation and care of exotic species. Upon arrival, our team of veterinarians and herpetologists immediately activated a specialised care protocol. Intensive rehydration procedures and critical care were initiated to stabilise the animals and reverse the physical deterioration caused by the transport conditions.

Seprona agents in Gandía have already launched an investigation into a 53-year-old Spanish national for the illegal trafficking of protected species. Further individuals may also be investigated in connection with the incident.

The technical team at Terra Natura Benidorm has begun conducting health assessments and coprological analyses to detect possible parasites or diseases linked to contact with wild fauna. Each turtle has been identified with a microchip and is being kept in isolation under strict veterinary supervision. In addition, external expert advice has been sought to strengthen clinical efforts if necessary.

One of the main challenges our team faces is feeding. As an omnivorous species with highly specialised dietary requirements in the wild, our experts are working against the clock to identify suitable food options in captivity that will support the turtles’ recovery and prevent starvation.

According to the park’s herpetologist, David Martí, “This case is a worrying example of the real impact of illegal wildlife trafficking—an illicit activity that threatens global biodiversity and endangers animal lives. Beyond breaching international law, such practices disrupt entire ecosystems and hinder conservation efforts for species already at risk.”

Seprona urges the public to report any signs of illegal trade in protected species and to support the work of specialised centres like Terra Natura Benidorm, which are dedicated to safeguarding wildlife and aiding in its recovery.

About Terra Natura Benidorm

Terra Natura Benidorm is a wildlife and nature park committed to the care of animal species. It is home to over 150 different species, most of which are vulnerable or endangered. Visitors are invited to experience “zooimmersion”, a concept in which barriers between humans and animals are hidden within the landscape, creating a sense of continuity between the recreated ecosystems and the animals’ natural habitats.