What is this turtle??

[Wartortle]

My auntie found this turtle walking around in the hot Californian sun (it was 90 degrees today). I've got no clue what kind of turtle this is or how to take care of it. Is it native to California and can I put it back? I'll probably try to get it to my local California Tortoise and Turtle Club, but I'd like to know what it is so I can tell them. Thanks for any help possible.

 

[dmmj]

Looks like a slider, no red on it;s head, so likely not a red ear slider.

 

[Yvonne G]

Its a very old, male red ear slider. When they get real old they start to turn melanistic (no color). Eventually all the yellow will be gone and he'll be totally dark.

No, don't put it back. They're not native to California and even though it came from the 'wild' it would be illegal to release him back to the wild. Your chapter of the CTTC will know what to do with him.