Turtle Questions?

Question

I want a turtle, probably a land turtle, but I heard about the ban on turtles. Is there any way I could get a turtle without breaking the law? I also heard that some types of turtles are not banned. Which types? I live in Northern Virginia.

Answer 1

Check with the VA Dept. of Game and Inland Fisheries. Their website can probably tell you what can be kept and what cannot. They probably prohibit the keeping of native species, with the possible exception of snapping turtles. While it is illegal to sell turtles less than 4" in shell length (except for educational and scientific purposes), it is not illegal to own them.

Answer 2

try Mid-Atlantic Turtle and Tortoise Society.  They adopt out turtles that were once pets.  They are located in Maryland and know the laws of Virginia.

Answer 3

you better make sure you can bring the turtle across the border.