Reptiles

Debilitating Ear Blisters Plague Long Island Turtle Populations from Pesticide Use    (Beyond Pesticides, August 5, 2021) A recent report by Turtle Rescue of the Hamptons finds Long Island, New York turtles are experiencing higher rates of deadly aural abscesses or ear blisters from pesticide use... However, synergism (collaboration) between viral infection and toxic chemical exposure increases aural abscess instances...Chemical contamination promoting disease/viral infection is not a new phenomenon among wildlife. ... Turtle Rescue facility workers note that aural abscess incidents are getting worse due to COVID-19. Advocates suggest that with more individuals remaining at home, chemical inputs are increasing, particularly for pesticides like disinfectants and lawn care chemicals.'