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Question pertinent to invasive species

PostPosted: Mon Nov 02, 2020 4:28 pm
by Atreus21
Hi folks,

I bought my son a red ear for his birthday and all has been well. But a recent occurrence raised an interesting question:

My youngest found a baby red-ear in the street next to a pond, and as we have the aquarium space to accommodate it, we took it home and included it with our other store-bought one. I've been conflicted on whether or not to release him, since these are considered invasive.

I wanted to know what you guys thought.

Re: Question pertinent to invasive species

PostPosted: Mon Nov 02, 2020 4:43 pm
by steve
Does that pond have a community of RES and can support them? I think there are 3 ways to look at it...

1) probably illegal in your state... even if they are an invasive species
2) not ethical to take a wild creature, especially when many captive turtles are looking for homes
3) hatchlings have a low survival rate, it could be difficult at the beginning
4) most RES will not get along in captivity. Male RES need to be separated from other turtles and a lot females are aggressive too.

Going back to #4, you will need to consider having a 2nd tank, or at least have a 2nd one ready in case there is any aggression.

Re: Question pertinent to invasive species

PostPosted: Mon Nov 02, 2020 5:42 pm
by Atreus21
Thanks very much for your reply and advice sir. The little 'un is eating okay so I assume he or she's okay. I've not witnessed any aggression from the larger one, which I assume is female since her claws are short compared to the males I've seen on youtube. My only complaint against her is that she bites at me whenever handled.

I take your points on #2 and #4 though. I'll tell the kids we gotta put the little guy back. Thanks again.

Re: Question pertinent to invasive species

PostPosted: Tue Nov 03, 2020 4:39 am
by steve
Glad to hear he's going back. If you do make an addition in the future, keep in mind that aggression can happen suddenly. There usually will be a couple of warning signs but those can be missed, and once it starts then separation is the only choice.

How long have you had the female RES?