Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I found a large turtle which I believe to be a red eared slider (photos are posted in the "what kind of turtle" forum, anyone interested please check them out and let me know what you think!) in a very urban part of Atlanta. He needs to be released back into the wild, as I suspect that he is a wild turtle and not a released pet. Please someone tell me, do I need to release him in the same area where I found him, or can I relocate him? I'm just not sure where he's come from, but my parents live on a big lake about an hour away. I know there are turtles there, we see them when we go boating. I would feel better releasing him there than here in the middle of the city! However, I know some turtle species need to be released back into their area, or else they will spend the rest of their lives trying to find their way "home". Please tell me what is best for this guy - I know he's not happy living in my bathroom!

I would put it where it will be the safest, away from traffic, people etc. It should do fine. I have heard of this being the case with box turtles but not with RES.

I would release it as soon as you can. Thank you for doing the right thing.

Linda