5 replies to this topic

[jer]

Hello everyone. I am new to this forum but will most likely be returning for more turtle related questions. A friend of mine found this turtle in a dried out wash (Southern California). I was wondering if you all might know what kind of turtle it is. Once I know what turtle I have, I will better be able to address his feeding, habitat, and other necessities.

[BoxTurtleLover]

More photos would help - it could be a Gulf Coast Box Turtle but I would need better photos and a photo of the plastron (bottom shell).  Please thank your friend for rescuing the turtle!  Also there are several turtle clubs in California and Southern Cal.  - the California Turtle & Tortoise Society, Sacramento Turtle & Tortoise Society, San Diego  Turtle & Tortoise Society, all with web sites and all sorts of info for folks who keep turtles in CA -  may be of further help to you.

[justatwinturbo]

its a pacific pond turtle, and very illegal for you to own in california.  Id find a secluded pond to release him in as soon as you can, or turn him in to a wild life rescue

[jg44]

It's a western pond turtle.
They are very rare.
They are big time protected in California.

Where are you located?
I can give you info on to do.

Turn it in. Don't dump it in a pond.

[jer]

Northern Los Angeles County next to the border of Ventura County

I was really looking forward to a pet,  guess ill have to purchase one. Do i drop it off at the Dept of Fish and Game?

[jg44]

Contact one of the turtle clubs that is closest  to you. They can instruct you as what to do with the turtle you have.
Ask about adoption they usually  have many turtles up for adoption and all are free, you don't have to buy one at a pet store.

CTTC Valley Chapter

Postal mailing address:

P.O. Box 7364, Van Nuys, CA 91409-7364

Meets:

Third Friday of the month, 7:30 pm at Woodland Hills Christian Church, 5920 Shoup Ave, Woodland Hills

CTTC Santa Barbara-Ventura Chapter

Postal mailing address:

P.O. Box 3086, Camarillo, CA 93011-3086

Meets:

Second Thursday of the month at 7:30 pm. Contact the

Chapter

for meeting location.

CTTC Foothill Chapter

Postal mailing address: P.O. Box 51002, Pasadena, CA 91115-1002
Meets: Fourth Friday of the month, 7:30 pm at Los Angeles County Arboretum, 301 N. Baldwin Avenue, Arcadia, CA