Captive RES are sliders who are no longer living in the wild or never have. Captive RES are usually accustomed to human interaction, living with no predators and being in a confined, temperature controlled habitat. They are dependent on their owners and keepers to provide their needs and environmental conditions. The acquisition of a wild RES will increase those needs.
Wild RES are accustomed to larger habitats and larger bodies of water. They search for prey and will attempt to capture them when the opportunity arises. They are more aware of predators and people and will generally shy away from them. Depending on their location, they are used to temperature changes and hibernation is a possibility. By understanding these differences, we can determine that they will not enjoy a confined space and will react negatively towards the greater physical restrictions. Their diet will become drastically different and their hibernation cycles may be interrupted.
Captive RES are usually in a relatively stable environment. They are less likely to hide from people, though they could still easily be startled. Their growth rate is much faster and they may have a richer but not as diverse diet. Their activity is limited to the size of their enclosure. Captive RES may also not be exposed to the number of diseases and parasites wild RES encounter. This would limit their ability to naturally fight those conditions if they were released into the wild.
In all respects, it is not a good idea to remove a healthy animal from the wild or to release a captive animal into the wild. This site does not endorse the capture of wild RES or other turtles regardless of the laws in your area.
If you do take a wild RES, then you will experience more difficulties in providing a suitable habitat. The best of efforts should always be attempted to mimic a wild environment. On the other hand, a released captive will be more susceptible to predators, starvation and disease. Getting a RES that was previously owned will make for an easier transition for you and them.
Related Topics: Adoption & Re-homing Links /
Native Habitat
A captive RES will be more susceptible to predators, starvation and disease. They are not conditioned for a harsher environment and are dependent on people for their food and safety. A released captive must compete against a native turtle population, could disrupt an ecosystem and may possibly introduce new diseases. Released captives may dangerously stray from their area of abandonment. They will be vulnerable to predators out of water, to people and to vehicular traffic. They may not be prepared for harsh weather conditions or seasonal changes.
Releasing a previously captive turtle is not an acceptable or humane decision. If you can no longer keep your turtle, you should search for a nearby turtle keeper, rescue operation or re-homing organization. A local veterinarian may have resource information if you require it.
Comment: Do not register on Turtle Talk for the sole purpose of turtle adoption or re-homing. We are not staffed for this purpose.
Related Topics:
Adoption & Re-homing Links /
Important Legal Issues
