A total of 136 neglected turtles have been seized from garden bins and a delivery van in Hoofddorp, reports the Telegraaf.

Inspectors from the Dutch food and safety authority, the NVWA, found 50 water and marsh turtles in small, dirty tubs of water in the garden. These included Hermann’s tortoises, marginated tortoises and red-footed tortoises.

Land turtles are protected species and owners must hold a special CITES certificate, which the owner of the scores of turtles could not produce.

In a van parked by the house, inspectors found 65 more water turtles, wandering freely among bottles and random items, with no food or water.

An official complaint is being drawn up against the turtle holders under animal and nature protection laws.

Meanwhile, the reptiles have been moved to the care of someone who will look after them properly, says the NVWA.

Photos: NVWA