Can I keep Florida soft-shelled turtles found on road? Tank size?

Question

Is it ok for me to have taken 2 Floridian soft-shelled turtle shells from the side of the road and keep them with a tank and everything and to take care of them because I found them on the side of the road and I didn't want them getting ran over and they were abandoned or they seemed to be abandoned.

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

Wild specimens will occasionally leave the water in search of better conditions. This could be the case when you found them. They aren't endangered and can be kept, however a large tank is required. Typically, for one soft shelled turtle, a 75 gallon tank is the absolute minimum. Ideally, a 90 gallon tank or larger should be provided. For two, you may need a tank in the 200 gallon range since this species can grow quite large. Females can be up to 2 feet long and over 40lbs at full size. If you are unable to keep them, consider returning them to water near to where they were found or contact an experienced wildlife rehabilitator to take them for eventual release.

Can I keep Florida soft-shelled turtles found on road? Tank size?

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