The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Dept. urges residents not to keep wild turtles as pets, citing potential harm to animals and broader turtle populations.
“Capturing a wild turtle and keeping it as a pet, even if only for a short time, is not only bad for that individual, but it could hurt turtle populations as well,” said Vermont Fish & Wildlife herpetologist Luke Groff.
According to Groff, turtles released after time in captivity can spread wildlife diseases and disrupt local genetics. Displaced turtles may also wander in search of familiar habitat, increasing their chances of being hit by vehicles.
Adult turtles, he notes, are particularly vulnerable to relocation because of their established home ranges. “They know where to find food, mates, and shelter,” Groff said. “A turtle released in unfamiliar habitat may roam greater distances.”
The department is especially concerned about the loss of mature female turtles. In Vermont’s northern climate, many turtle species don’t reproduce until they are at least 10. Older females are key to sustaining populations because they lay more eggs and have already survived many threats.
Species commonly seen in Vermont include the painted turtle and Snapping turtle. Rarer species—such as the wood turtle, Spotted Turtle, spiny soft shell, and eastern musk turtle—should be reported to the Vermont Reptile and Amphibian Atlas at vtherpatlas.org.
“Older, sexually mature females are critical to the long-term persistence of some of Vermont’s turtle populations,” Groff said.
The department encourages Vermonters to admire native turtles in their natural habitat and take photographs—rather than animals—home.
To learn more about Vermont’s turtles or to report sightings, visit: vtfishandwildlife.com.
