Disabled Turtle

[Jack Green]

I know that this is about turtles not tortoises but this is very urgent to me. I found a Southeastern musk turtle flipped over on its back 5 days ago now this seemed a little odd since he was in about 3 inches of water but then I noticed he was struggling to flip back over because he is missing his left arm and left eye. I live in Mississippi and was hoping to get advice on what to do with him because he is incapable of doing much.

 

[Moore]

Is there a local wildlife rescue group?

 

[ZEROPILOT]

I know that this is about turtles not tortoises but this is very urgent to me. I found a Southeastern musk turtle flipped over on its back 5 days ago now this seemed a little odd since he was in about 3 inches of water but then I noticed he was struggling to flip back over because he is missing his left arm and left eye. I live in Mississippi and was hoping to get advice on what to do with him because he is incapable of doing much.

I take it that the injuries look fresh? And there is no hope of it surviving on it's own?

 

[Jack Green]

I take it that the injuries look fresh? And there is no hope of it surviving on it's own?

The eye was freshly cut and has since scabbed over and I am afraid is going to lose it he does have some bite marks on the back of his shell (most likely a raccoon) but missing arm is healed and scarred over although it has bone jutting out

 

[Jack Green]

Is there a local wildlife rescue group?

no there isn't but I am trying to get him into a safe location soon because I don't want to influence him

 

[Berkeley]

You'd be surprised- I bet it is more capable that we imagine! Turtles, especially wild ones, are quite tough. It is not an answer that most people want to hear, but I would just put him back out there where you found it. They often heal up quite well and are nearly fully functional (if they are missing a leg).

--Berkeley

 

[Jack Green]

You'd be surprised- I bet it is more capable that we imagine! Turtles, especially wild ones, are quite tough. It is not an answer that most people want to hear, but I would just put him back out there where you found it. They often heal up quite well and are nearly fully functional (if they are missing a leg).

--Berkeley

Ok I will take your advice I mean its in mother nature's hands now thanks!

 

[Berkeley]

Certainly! I wish it luck too! I think it will be alright.

If it is in a spot that is not too remote (like a neighborhood pond or something), you may actually see it again.
--Berkeley

 

[enchilada]

time to let it go. only mother nature can decide its fate....
btw , shoot that dam racoon if you can.