Hello from southern California

[sunshade]

Hi I'm in southern California. I recently found a turtle in our backyard, and I have no idea what kind of turtle he is - that's why I'm here. I hope to learn a lot from you all. Have a nice day!

 

[LindaF]

Welcome. If you can post a picture of the turtle I am sure a member can help you identify him or her.

 

[Isa]

Welcome to the forum

 

[sunshade]

Welcome. If you can post a picture of the turtle I am sure a member can help you identify him or her.

This is him. Is this a desert box turtle? Do I need a permit to keep him in my backyard? He seems he has been living in the garden for awhile, and I recently moved in. (The house had been empty for a long time.)

 

[jeffbens0n]

Welcome! It appears that the two pictures you posted are of different turtles. Are there two different turtles inhabiting your yard?

 

[sunshade]

Welcome! It appears that the two pictures you posted are of different turtles. Are there two different turtles inhabiting your yard?

Oh, both of them are the same turtle. I have just one turtle - but I know what you mean The close-up shot was taken when he was wet - I was watering the garden - he was hiding there and accidentally took a good shower... So his shell looks clearer than the other photo. When it's dry, the pattern and color on his shell is not as clear as shown in the close-up shot. It's normally light brown - as you can see in the other photo.

Here is another one..

 

[Yvonne G]

I think he's a gulf coast box turtle (Terrapene carolina major)

Hi Sunshade:

Welcome to the forum!! May we know your name?

 

[ALDABRAMAN]

Welcome.

 

[Torty Mom]

Welcome to TFO! What a fun surprise to find!!

 

[kimber_lee_314]

I said three toed earlier, but now I think Yvonne is right ... gulf coast boxie. Is it male or female?

 

[DocNezzy]

Congrats on your new addition. And WELCOME!

 

[coreyc]

Welcome to the TFO

 

[bikerchicspain]

Hello and welcome