How to Catch a Baby Turtle

Baby turtles are adorable creatures. But they can grow into harmful pests that kill fish in backyard koi ponds and farm ponds. Some species of adult turtles, such as the snapping turtle, can inflict serious bites, especially to children and small pets. It's best to contact a wildlife-control officer to remove adult turtles and relocate them to a more suitable home. However, there are several effective methods for catching baby turtles.

Things You'll Need

  • Fishing net
  • Turtle trap
  • Bucket
  • Shovel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Scoop up a baby turtle that is swimming with a fishing net or a pool net. Place the turtle in a bucket along with a small amount of water. Relocate it or contact an animal-control officer.

    • 2

      Purchase a live turtle trap for baby turtles that are elusive and difficult to catch with a net. A wide variety of turtle traps are available at many bait shops and farm supply stores. Relocate trapped turtles as soon as possible.

    • 3

      Scoop up a baby turtle crawling on land with a shovel and place it in a box or bucket for relocation.

    • 4

      Avoid catching baby turtles with your hands if at all possible, since they carry salmonella, which can be deadly, especially to young children. If you find it necessary to pick up a baby turtle with your hands, hold it gently, like a hamburger, with fingers on the top of the shell and thumb on the bottom. Baby turtles have soft shells that are easily damaged if they are squeezed. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling baby turtles.