I believe its illegal to own any of the gopher tortoise species. There may be some special caveats for grandfathered animals that were in captivity prior to the laws going into affect, or for random animals rescued by well meaning folks. Still, I believe the US Wildlife and Fisheries response on rescues is to NOT DO IT!! I know, it sucks possibly seeing a rare tortoise in the middle of the road, in a neighborhood, or somewhere you know its probably going to wind up as road kill, and NOT being able to rescue it and give it a good home. Release is also frowned upon as well if not mistaken. I quess technically you should turn the animal in to your local wildlife and fisheries agency for disposal. Or, just keep it and know you are potentially breaking the law and may be found out.

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