Fluffy the snapping turtle fished out of Cumbrian lake

Fluffy by name, but not quite by nature...

This alligator snapping turtle was found in a tarn, which is a small lake, in Cumbria, despite being native to swamps and rivers in southern parts of the US.

They're described as an invasive species that have a very nasty bite and will "pretty much eat anything."

The exotic creature was fished out of the water with a shopping basket, three layers of gloves and a large container before being taken to a vet who lovingly named it Fluffy.

It's not illegal to own and animal like this but vets don't recommend it!

It's thought the turtle was kept as a pet before it became too difficult to look after due to its complicated needs.

Dr Moule, a veterinary surgeon from Wild Side Vets in Barrow-in-Furness, described the discovery as "extremely surprising".

He added: "At this size, it could give you a nasty bite but when they get bigger, they can grow up to 80kg (12st) and they can cause some damage.

"I'm sure if it was left there it would be invasive and eat everything in the water."

The turtle is being cared for by the veterinary centre before it is rehomed in a zoo or sent to a private keeper.