DT News reports that at least five Chinatown stores openly and illegally sell turtles in Los Angeles Chinatown.
Public health officials say the reptiles known as red-headed sliders carry salmonella and are a danger to public health.
“It’s illegal for these stores to be selling these turtles,” said Andrew Hughan, a spokesman for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
He says they are particularly dangerous when they are smaller than four inches.
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The salmonella can spread to humans through contact with the skin.
You can read about efforts to educate the merchants about these dangers in DT News.