Hi! Introduce yourselves here. :: 2 baby RES found in swimming pool---

[Astr0]

Hello,
I found two baby RES (half dollar size?) in my swimming pool 3 days ago in the middle of a 4 day fit of rain. I took them out of the swimming pool and stuck them in the sink with around two inches of water and a few rocks from the garden. I also cut up a small amount of lettuce and a small amount of orange for them to have to eat. I set a desk lamp up fpr them to have for them to bask. This was all general information I gathered from the internet within a few minutes of research. I found them on Friday and today I started searching the web for more information when I found this site. I think I can find an aquarium to start with today because I actually find them both very interesting and entertaining. We have several ponds close to our house, would it be best to just relalese them?? I have always been a dog owner/lover but I know nothing about RES. That is why I am here!
Thanks

[steve]

Hi, welcome to the site. You might want to look to see if there are any others nearby, since they are probably part of a larger clutch. Also, adult RES need a lot of space, if having 100-200 gallon tanks or ponds is not possible in a few years, you might try to see where they came from and return them there.

[Astr0]

I am sorry if this topic is more suitable to the General Care forum, but I found another baby wondering around the backyard when I got home today. I feel it may be a bit irresponsible to take on caring for 3 RES with zero experience. Since I live in south Texas, it is almost impossible to find where they are coming from with all of the canals, ditches and ponds, but I have been looking. I just wanted to make sure if I decided to set them free that it would be a wise decision. Are they similar to sea turtles in the idea that they are hatched and left to fend for themselves? If so, I assume they will be just as happy living together in my neighbors pond. Just trying to do the right thing!
Thanks again

[steve]

If you currently have a dog, you might want to check the area to make sure it's clear of any turtles before he/she goes there.

RES don't really need complicated care. Space is the main issue for most people. Males roughly need a 75 gallon tank, 100 gallons for a female.

You are right they are left to fend for themselves. It might be a good idea to keep them for a couple of weeks to make sure they are healthy and fed. Then find a spot where there are other RES and release them.