How often should i check a turtle trap?

Question

I made a turtle trap yesterday its not one that kills them just to catch them im trying to catch a few for my pond but i put it out this morning around 10am when should i go back and get it and how often should i check it?

Answer 1

You should check it every day- and release any turtles you catch.

Sorry, but I simply can't support the idea of an inexperienced person taking turtles out of the wild. Most populations are declining as it is, and you're making it worse. Do you know whether or not these species are protected in your area? Did you know that in many areas you need special permits to trap turtles?

Answer 2

I check mine in the morning and just before dusk.

Answer 3

Hello Turtle Lover!

I sure was glad to see that you were not trying to kill turtles -- or catch them to eat!  They should be happy in your pond.

I'd check the trap daily to take the little fellows home.  Less than that, they will be really hungry.

Let me tell you a sweet story...My son went to work at a power plant about 5 years ago.  This particular power plant is located on a river, and there is a system of intake and output sources for the water.  When he started working there, they had a problem with turtles getting caught on the screen for the water going into the power plant -- turtles were killed & the incoming water was contaminated.  Son said, "Why not just free the turtles and there would be no problem."  Management thought that was the stupidest suggestion they had ever heard!  Son took it on as his job to check the screens daily and free the trapped turtles.  The little ones, he brings home to his two little girls, who love them for the evening and then let them go in a nearby large lake.  After 5 years of my son freeing turtles, the company won an award for being "turtle-friendly" in the industry.  Management attributed it to their 'high tech' screens!   HELLO!

I'm just glad that I raised a 'turtle-lovin'-fellow!'

I'd love to see your pond!