Hello, this is my first post after doing quite a bit of google and forum reading. I was given this little guy by my neighbor, who got it from a friend, and was told he was a redfoot before seeing him. Upon getting him and doing some homework I believe he is an ornate box?
In my reading I've found that Ornate's are listed as endangered in IL and therefore illegal to keep as pets. This is where I'm asking for help. I've been around reptiles for years and I'm confident this guy has been captive for a while as we can pet his head, he's never closed up in his shell, will take fruit from your hand, and in the 3 weeks I've had him has never acted aggressive once. Is this normal behavior for an ornate? We dont have any forest where I live in town, and have a hard time just letting him go in a random wooded area because of his extremely passive behavior.
I'm experienced with snake and lizard care, but never had a turtle/tortoise. I have no issues keeping and setting up a table for him but also dont want to get into legal trouble for keeping him. Any input is much appreciated!
In my reading I've found that Ornate's are listed as endangered in IL and therefore illegal to keep as pets. This is where I'm asking for help. I've been around reptiles for years and I'm confident this guy has been captive for a while as we can pet his head, he's never closed up in his shell, will take fruit from your hand, and in the 3 weeks I've had him has never acted aggressive once. Is this normal behavior for an ornate? We dont have any forest where I live in town, and have a hard time just letting him go in a random wooded area because of his extremely passive behavior.
I'm experienced with snake and lizard care, but never had a turtle/tortoise. I have no issues keeping and setting up a table for him but also dont want to get into legal trouble for keeping him. Any input is much appreciated!
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