Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I am pretty sure the snapper I inherited is an alligator snapper. I don't have the room for him and am getting rid of him. Would the local lake be a good place for him as any?
Any comments would be appreciated.
Thanks!

If you want, you can send it to me and I'll take care of it. I have a big pond that can accomodate it. Actually, I just bought my fourth alligator snapper.

I also know a friend who would love to have it.

Just let me know if you need my help.

Always make sure that an animal is native to your area before releasing it into the wild- In some cases, even a native sp. should not be released- for instance, long-term captives or sub-species. Non-native releases can be detrimental to either the released animal or the environment.

If you inherit or find a reptile and are not absolutely sure of its' species, it's a good idea to find a wildlife rehabber in your area to identify it, or a zoo reptile curator.

We also take in turtles of all types, particularly snappers. We have a 1 acre pond on a 23 acre wildlife preserve. Beautiful place. Please consider us for turtle adoptions.

Wildlife rescue rehabber, Quillon

I know this is a new reply to a way old post, but if anyone ever scrolls down...

I agree with the above that you should at least check to see if the animal is native to where it is being released.

Other problems with releasing captive animals include but are not limited too:
1) Especially when the captive's history is uncertain, it may be released into a different local then it is from, thus introducing non-local pathogens.
2) If the turtle was ever exposed to other captives either directly or non-directly via cleaning/handling practices then he may carry exotic pathogens.
3)Released animals may be dropped off in unsuitable microhabitats. A perfect example is releasing a prairie rattlesnake in a valley with minimal hibernaculum sites. The snake will not be familiar with where to find them.

For these reasons I'd suggest bringing the turtle to a hobbyist willing to take him in, or an experienced wildlife rehaber who can assess the specific situation.