Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My husband and I were given a small alligator snapping turtle (about 7 inches long) from a pet shop while at the beach last weekend. Well, after doing a ton of research, I realize that I can't take care of something that will get that big. I know, I should've done my research before we took the turtle home but the pet shop needed to get rid of him ASAP.

Anyway, we have decided to release him into a nearby river. Is there anything I should take into consideration like should it be in a muddy part or a place with a lot of trees?

What do you think will be this little guy's chance at survival? We tried to give him to a pet shop around here but they say it would be illegal for them to sell him.

Any suggestions?

Hey there...Releasing him may seem like the nicest thing to do, but unless you know the exact body of water he came from, he will likely not survive..Possibly killing off other things as well. Your turtle carries different pathogens and viruses and whatnot than everything else in that river and by letting him loose there, he could pass on these and take in some new harmful ones..Like I mentioned,he will most likely not make it. The ideal thing to do would be to give him to someone you know that can take care of him...Im sure there are tons of people on this forum that could do it. This way, he can still live a happy life, and will be taken care of properly. Keep us posted.
Matt

Thanks, Matt, for responding to my post. I didn't even think about all of that.

Do you know of anyone who would want a free turtle that lives in Alabama or near here? I don't know how to mail a living, breathing turtle and would be hesitant to do so.

Thanks again!
*Bezz

Bezzerracmr@yahoo.com

if it comes down to it, i can take it.

let me know via email,
greg

sk8r009@hotmail.com