found turtle

Question
I found what looks to be a painted turtle in South Florida. It was in the parking lot. I live next to part of the intracoastal. I put it in the water but it did not swim too well, now I have it in my kitchen sink, I want to release it back in the wild but I don't know where. Or is it someone's pet therefore it shouldn't be in the wild? What type of area should I find to release it?

Answer
Hi Sara,

I'm not sure how cold it is in Florida, but in most areas turtles are hibernating now.  You may have a sick turtle, or an escaped pet.  Painted turtles aren't native to FL, but red-bellied turtles are, so identification will affect whether it should be released or not.  I think your best bet would be to contact a rescue that can help you ID the turtle and decide what to do with it.  This organization is in central FL, but if they can't help you they may be able to direct you to someone who can: http://www.turtlerescueusa.com/wordpress/?page_id=4.      

Here are pictures that may help you ID the turtle:

http://members.seaturtle.org/caseyturtle/
http://chelonia.org/pseudemysgallery.htm
http://chelonia.org/Articles/chrysemyscare.htm

Thank you for wanting to help this turtle!