Here is an article I wrote back in 2002 for the Reptiles magazine annual.  I have been told that it was later reprinted and provided in the turtle kit made by R-Zilla.  This article provides general husbandry information for turtles and tortoises suited for the beginner.

www.Texasturtles.org here to add text.

What to do if you find a turtle and you think you might want to keep it:

More often than not the best thing to do when a turtle is encountered is to release it back to the nearest body of water or safe habitat.  Land dwelling species such as box turtles remain in the same 2-3 acre area their entire lives and can die if moved elsewhere.  Aquatic turtles may fare better than land dwelling species if translocated, but these also should be returned to their original environment.

For the most part, keeping a turtle for a day or two before releasing it does no harm and can allow children the priceless experience of viewing these interesting animals up close.  However, it is important to remember that turtles usually out live the interest of new keepers.  These animals can live for several years and you should not consider keeping one until you have considered all of the necessary responsibilities.

I encourage people to release turtles they have found simply because most of them soon realize that they are not suited for keeping the animal. 

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If you would like an identification provided for the turtle you found please send an email with a digital photo of the turtle in question.Click Here