The turtles were incorrectly advertised in a social media post as four-month-old drawback turtles, but officials say they are actually map turtles and pose a significant public health risk.

“Nocturnals are known as carriers of Salmonellosis and pose a potential public health hazard. They may not be sold or purchased or possessed in Alberta,” Brand added.

They were sold with a 10-gallon tank, heat lamps and turtle pellets.