turtle information

Question
I have had a red ear slider turtle for 4 years, now i am thinking of turning him loose in a well protected pond so he can be with other turtles, and get to live a normal life.i was going to do this when the weather worms up next spring will he learn how to live in the wild i put fish in his tank so he knows how to get food i was thinking more about the winter weather will he learn how to protect himself, just thinking of doing this for him he seems loneley at times if you could let me know this would sure help thanks

Answer
Hi Doris,

Turtles really don't get lonely as they are solitary animals.  They are also hard wired and would survive in the wild regardless if captive bred or wild caught and length of captivity.  However, releasing a captive turtle cannot be done, nor should it, even if Red Ear sliders occur naturally in your area.  If you can no longer care for your turtles the best solution and really one of the only things to do would be to place them into a new home.

It may also be illegal in your state to release turtles, spread of micro-oranisms your turtle has (that may not harm it) can spread to vulnerable and endandered species, competetion over resources will also likely occur and in general this is a huge risk all around.

Please don't release your turtle.

If you need assistance in placement, please visit: http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/Maturtlerescue/

There are many there that keep red ear sliders and perhaps someone will be willing to take your.