Adopt a Turtle Near You: Turtle & Tortoise Rescue Directory
Looking to adopt a turtle or tortoise? Skip the pet store. This directory helps you find turtle and tortoise rescues near you, so you can give a shelled friend a second home.
Search by your state, city, or the name of a rescue, then reach out directly to ask what they currently have up for adoption.
No matches. Try a state name, city, or clinic/rescue name.
How to Use This Turtle Rescue Directory
Type your state, city, or a rescue's name in the search box
Browse the rescues that serve your area
Check each one's focus: tortoises, aquatic turtles, or all reptiles
Contact the rescue by website, email, or phone
Ask what turtles or tortoises they have and how their adoption process works
Why Adopt a Turtle Instead of Buying One?
Buying turtles often supports bad breeding practices. Adoption helps give a second chance to turtles that need homes. Plus, most adopted turtles come with basic health checks, and many are already used to human care.
Turtle Adoption Cost: What to Expect
Adoption fees vary by rescue, but they are usually much lower than buying from a pet store. Expect to pay around $20 to $100 depending on species, health, and the rescue's policies.
Some rescues might even offer turtles for free if you are providing a good home.
What Kinds of Turtles Can You Adopt?
Here are some species you might find through these rescues:
Box turtles
Red-eared sliders
Sulcata tortoises
Russian tortoises
Painted turtles
Musk and mud turtles
Availability changes often, so it is worth contacting a few rescues in your area.
Where Can I Put My Turtle Up for Adoption?
If you can't keep your turtle anymore, don't release it into the wild. That is illegal in many places and bad for native wildlife.
Instead, contact local reptile rescues or use this same directory to find one near you. Call them and ask if they accept turtle surrenders. You can also post in responsible adoption forums or groups.
Can You Adopt a Box Turtle?
Yes, you can! Box turtles show up often in adoptions. But be aware, as some states have laws about owning native box turtles, so always check your local rules first.
Check out our full turtle care guides and rescue stories on the site. If you are not ready to adopt yet, start by learning whether a turtle is a good pet for beginners and what kind fits your lifestyle.
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