Do you have a turtle in your swimming pool or a turtle running away in your pool? If so, then it's time for you to learn how to catch a turtle. Follow one of the ways to catch and release turtles described below.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Using Tortoise Trap
Step 1. Find the turtle
If you are trying to get a turtle out of a pond, then you really need to know that the turtle is there. If you just want to catch a turtle in the wild, you can find it around small, wet ponds with lots of rocks and hiding places. If the water in the pond is receding, then the best chance of finding it is at the edge of the water.
Leaving a turtle in its natural habitat is better than bringing it home as your pet. If the tortoise seems happy where it lives, then just leave it there. However, if you are concerned about his condition, you may consider contacting the relevant party for further action
Step 2. Dig a hole near the turtle
The hole should be about 25 cm deep and wide, with very steep sides. You can make any hole as long as it is deep enough and easily accessible to the turtle.
- Do not dig a hole more than 30 cm deep. The turtle will be injured when it falls into the hole.
- You can also buy artificial traps. There are many trap makers. Most of them are communities that have designed their own trap designs.
Step 3. Cover the net with bait
Most tortoises like green vegetables and small insects, but you can experiment with a variety of other foods as well. Cover the trap with some bait especially if you plan to leave the trap and come back the next day.
- Different types of turtles, different food they eat. Turtles are known to be scavengers, so you can use raw meat to catch certain types of turtles.
- Don't forget to keep bait around the trap. Place some bait around the trap so the tortoise can see it. However, don't put too much bait so the tortoise won't feel full before it reaches the trap. You can place lettuce slices around the trap to make the trap work properly.
Step 4. Wait for the turtle to enter the trap
Let the turtle eat the bait that is on the trap until the turtle falls into the hole or trap.
- If the tortoise is not paying attention or paying attention to the food, approach the tortoise discreetly from behind. Touch the tail quickly with a small stick. This can surprise the turtle and make it run forward right where the hole is.
- If you have other things to do and are tired of waiting for the turtle to enter the trap, then leave the trap for a while. This may require more than one try, because it is not impossible for other animals to bite the bait. But at the right time, you will be able to catch the turtle.
Step 5. Release the turtle from the trap
Gently hold the center of the turtle. Make sure your fingers are out of reach of his arms and legs.
- Turtles have large claws that can claw powerfully. Turtles also have a strong bite. Therefore, be careful.
- If you don't want to touch the turtle, you can remove it from the hole with a bucket or shovel. If you are using an artificial trap, then all you have to do is lift the trap to move the turtle.
Step 6. Move the turtle to a suitable habitat
Before you catch a tortoise, consider what kind of tortoise is native to your area. Some turtles are considered harmless and can be moved around us. However, other types of turtles are considered as invasive species and need to be handled by the relevant parties. Pay attention to the type of turtle you catch and treat it appropriately.
Method 2 of 2: Catching a Tortoise by Hand
Step 1. Before you catch, first observe the type of turtle you will catch
Catching turtles this way is the best way to catch small turtles.
- If you want to catch a large turtle, then you can sneak up and catch the turtle by the side.
- Watch out for turtle bites! Turtles have long necks that can reach your fingers! The best thing is to let them.
Step 2. Put your finger in the water where you can see the turtle
Shake your fingers slowly. This can distract the turtle because you imitate the movement of small insects on the surface of the water.
Step 3. Let the tortoise approach
However, don't let the animal get so close that it can bite you. You need to pay attention when the animal is close enough to be caught with your other hand.
Step 4. Catch the side of the turtle quickly
If you are afraid to catch the turtle by hand, bring a small container to catch the animal. You can also use gardening or snow gloves so you don't get scratched or bitten.
Step 5. You can see the turtle without bringing it home
While it's amazing to see a wild animal up close, don't isolate the animal from its natural habitat forever. As with the world's wild animal populations, the world's population of native turtle species is declining. We need to help them survive by letting them live in their natural environments.
Warning
- Understand and comply with applicable regulations. Some species are prohibited from being caught or kept and must be left in their natural habitat. In addition, in Oregon, you are prohibited from "buying, selling, possessing or releasing" red-eared sliders or biting turtles.
- Make sure you wash your hands after touching the turtles! Some reptiles are known to have Salmonella and it can easily transfer to your hands. The good news is that you can get rid of it by washing your hands properly.
