A few questions

[AGSoldier]

Hey guys. So today I found a male box turtle wandering where I was working a construction site. Were putting up new apartments where I found the little guy and was wondering what I should do with him. I know were pretty much going to be tearing down the area where he roams and calls home. I already have a female box turtle from a few years ago and wouldn't mind having another but I don't want to take a wild turtle from the outside unless I absolutely have to.
Am I able to take him home and put him with my female without too much trouble? Am I able to relocate him? I know in some states that it's Illegal to take a box turtle from the wild but I'm not sure about the rules with Alabama. Any help would be appreciated!

 

[Yvonne G]

Hi Marcus:

I'm not sure about your state regulations either. I just now Googled it and took this off the 'net:

• It shall be unlawful to collect or offer for sale sell or trade for anything of value any box turtle (Terrapene Carolina), box turtle part or reproductive product except by permit

So I guess it would behoove you to contact someone from the Department of Game and Fish (or whatever its called in Alabama) and see if it's ok for you to take in the turtle.

Personally, because you are destroying his territory by building there, I would think it would be ok to take it in. But find out for sure.

 

[Dean Wirth]

Maybe it is a blessing in disguise that you found this turtle. Contact wildlife officials but i think its a safe bet that housing it with your female is a good plan.