Is it adult box turtle? Is it a type of bow turtle that's native to your area?

If the answer to either question is 'yes', then I would say take it back outside and put it back where you found it. A 40 g tank is WAY too small for an adult box turtle (actually, too small for anything except a brand new hatchling), and if they're native to your area, it probably lives in your immediate neighborhood. If its a female, she may be looking for a nesting site, and you may soon find yourself with a serious problem on your hands if you can't provide what she needs.

They can be challenging to care for in captivity, and if you're not prepared to really take proper care, vet bills can be more expensive for exotics than for dogs or cats.

When you asked yourself what you could do, an alternate answer would have been to leave it alone, and to see if it makes a return trip next year.

If you are really set on having a pet box turtle, contact your local herp society to see if there's a reptile rescue in your area, or contact Turtle Homes, and adopt one that has been displaced/long time captive, injury survivor. That would be doing the right thing if you're willing to make a commitment.



Regards,

Stephanie

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