what kind of turtle is this?

[Bec]

I would have to agree that it is an Ornate Wood Turtle. Eastern Box Turtles don't have quite the swirly type pattern, they have more of a "painted" look to their pattern and facial markings:

Here is another picture of an Ornate Wood Turtle

 

[ladycrotalus]

Quote:
Not a good idea. Turtles have a sort of homeing ability and should only be released within a 1/2 mile radius of where they were caught. If released far away from that area they get confused and usually end up dead.

Plus depending on how long it has been in captivity, it is a federal offense to release it. It could introduce diseases to the wild populations.

If they dont want the turtle and its illegal to sell it. Donating it to a zoo or a local herpetological society or reptile rescue. Or these people. http://turtlehomes.org/

 

[chrisf]

That turtle is an Ornate Wood Turtle. It is indigenous to tropical regions such as Costa Rica, and therefore if released in the wild, it would perish because it does not hibernate. It was purchased at a pet shop and can be sold as long as its shell is over 4in. long and is not a native species to the U.S............

 

[SilkieTime]

I didn't think you could let it go. The shell is about 8" or more. The girl that have it before had it a long time. There going to take it to the Nashville zoo. Thank every one for you help.