Found a red eared slider turtle in my yard. I live in MI and my research is showing that they aren't native here. It is just a baby, about the size of a silver dollar.
Should I let it go at the near by creek? I am all for setting it free, but if it isn't native to the area, I don't know it if that would be for the best.
?
Favorite Answer
Good thinking. RES are really nasty invasives and have crapped up a lot of good habitat, taking over from the native turtles, some of which are threatened or endangered. If you don't want it, you might be able to sell it or give it away. Definitely, do not release it.
AlexPalmer
I would call the Fish & Game Department to inform them that you have an invasive non-native species in your state. They may ask for a general description of the animal although I'm not sure what happens after that. RES are not particularly dangerous as invasive species, but all the same I would keep it for now.
fununtilitsover
Let it go in the nearest body of water you found it next to.