Missouri is home to a variety of turtle species, both aquatic and terrestrial. While turtles can make great pets, it is important to be aware of the laws surrounding their ownership and care. The laws in Missouri are in place to protect both the turtles and their habitats, as well as to prevent the spread of disease.
It is illegal to own certain turtle species in Missouri without a permit, and taking turtles from the wild is strictly prohibited. Additionally, there are regulations in place for commercial fishing of certain turtle species. Understanding these laws is essential for anyone who wishes to own or interact with turtles in Missouri. In this article, we will take a closer look at the laws surrounding turtle ownership and care in Missouri, providing a clear and concise explanation of the regulations.
Turtle Ownership Laws in Missouri
Missouri has strict regulations regarding turtle ownership. It is unlawful to own any of the seven sea turtle species, which include Loggerhead turtles, Green sea turtles, Leatherback turtles, Hawksbill turtles, Kemp’s ridley turtles, Olive ridley turtles, and Flatback turtles. It’s also illegal to possess an endangered turtle species without the appropriate state-issued license or permit.
Nevertheless, the state does allow legal ownership of certain turtle species. The species list includes:
- Smooth Softshell
- Spiny Softshell
- Ornate Box Turtle
- Alligator Snapping Turtle
- Common Snapping Turtle
- Southern Painted Turtle
- Western Painted Turtle
- Yellow Mud Turtle
- River Cooter
- Common Map Turtle
- Three-toed Box Turtle
- Blanding’s Turtle
- Eastern Spiny Softshell
- Illinois Mud Turtle
- Midland Smooth Softshell
If you wish to own turtles in Missouri, you must comply with the possession limit, which allows four turtles per person per day. Furthermore, you are required to have a valid fishing license to collect turtles from the wild, and these turtles cannot be sold for commercial purposes.
Should you plan to breed turtles, Missouri law requires you to obtain a Class I Wildlife Breeder Permit. This permit lets you breed and sell turtles within legal parameters. However, bear in mind that specific turtle species, such as the Alligator Snapping Turtle, are designated as Class I wildlife, which calls for additional permits to breed and sell them.
Turtles hold a significant place in Missouri’s ecosystem, and their populations have been suffering declines due to poaching, habitat loss, water pollution, and hunting. Therefore, it’s vital to abide by Missouri’s turtle ownership laws to safeguard these essential reptiles.
Turtle Commercialization Laws in Missouri
If you are planning to sell or commercialize turtles in Missouri, it is important to know the state laws and regulations. To sell or commercialize turtles in any way, you will need a Class I Wildlife Breeder Permit. However, there are certain turtle species that can be sold without a permit, including River Cooter Turtle, Red-eared Slider Turtle, Smooth Softshell Turtle, Spiny Softshell Turtle, Ornate Box Turtle, and Alligator Snapping Turtle.
The 4 Inches Law
It is important to note that Missouri has a 4 inches law, which prohibits the sale of turtles with a carapace length of less than four inches. This law is in place to protect the turtle population and prevent over-harvesting. If you are caught selling turtles with a carapace length of less than four inches, you could face fines and penalties.
Additionally, it is important to know the different turtle species and their legal status in Missouri. The Missouri Department of Conservation has identified several turtle species as endangered or threatened, including the Blanding’s Turtle, the Eastern Box Turtle, and the Spotted Turtle. It is illegal to take, possess, transport, export, or sell these turtles without a permit.
In conclusion, if you plan to sell or commercialize turtles in Missouri, it is important to follow the state laws and regulations. Obtain the necessary permits and be aware of the 4 inches law and the legal status of different turtle species. By doing so, you can help protect the turtle population and avoid legal trouble.
Laws About Wild Turtles in Missouri
Missouri is home to a wide variety of turtle species, some of which are native to the state. However, it is important to note that not all turtles can be owned as pets. There are certain endangered species that are protected by law and are illegal to own or sell in Missouri. It is also illegal to capture, sell, or trade Missouri’s turtles in the pet trade, except for the common snapping turtle and the softshell turtle species, which are considered game if captured by approved methods.
Poaching and capturing wild turtles is illegal in Missouri and can result in hefty fines and even imprisonment. The Missouri Department of Conservation has proposed a ban on commercial collection of the state’s wild freshwater turtles to end unsustainable turtle harvesting.
It is important to be aware of the laws regarding wild turtles in Missouri and to respect their natural habitat. Turtles play an important role in the ecosystem and should be protected and conserved for future generations. If you come across a wild turtle in Missouri, it is best to observe it from a distance and not disturb its natural habitat.
Native Species for Missouri
Missouri is home to a diverse range of turtle species, including both aquatic and land turtles. In fact, there are 18 species of turtles native to Missouri, with 15 of them being aquatic and 3 of them being land turtles. Here is a brief overview of some of the native turtle species found in Missouri:
Hard-shelled Aquatic Turtles
- Common Snapping Turtle: The common snapping turtle is one of the largest turtle species in Missouri, with adults reaching up to 18 inches in length. They are found in a variety of aquatic habitats, including lakes, ponds, and streams.
- Spiny Softshell Turtle: The spiny softshell turtle is a unique species of turtle that has a soft, leathery shell with small spines along the front edge. They are found in rivers and streams across Missouri.
- Mississippi Map Turtle: The Mississippi map turtle is a medium-sized turtle that is found in rivers and streams throughout Missouri. They are named for the map-like pattern on their shell.
Soft-shelled Aquatic Turtles
- Midland Smooth Softshell Turtle: The midland smooth softshell turtle is a large, flat turtle that is found in rivers and streams throughout Missouri. They have a smooth, leathery shell and a long, pointed snout.
- Eastern Spiny Softshell Turtle: The eastern spiny softshell turtle is a medium-sized turtle that is found in rivers and streams throughout Missouri. They have a soft, leathery shell with small spines along the front edge.
Hard-shelled Land Turtles
- Three-toed Box Turtle: The three-toed box turtle is a small, terrestrial turtle that is found in a variety of habitats throughout Missouri, including forests, fields, and prairies. They have a distinctive, domed shell and three toes on each foot.
- Ornate Box Turtle: The ornate box turtle is a small, terrestrial turtle that is found in grasslands and prairies throughout Missouri. They have a distinctive, domed shell with intricate patterns and bright colors.
It is important to note that all but three of the turtle species native to Missouri are protected, so it is illegal to take them from the wild or keep them as pets without a permit. Additionally, it is important to be aware of Missouri’s turtle laws and regulations to ensure that these species are protected and conserved for future generations to enjoy.
Missouri Laws About Sea Turtles
Missouri has strict laws regarding the ownership of sea turtles. It is illegal to own any of the seven sea turtle species, including Loggerhead turtles, Green sea turtles, Leatherback turtles, Hawksbill turtles, Kemp’s ridley turtles, Olive ridley turtles, and Flatback turtles. These species are protected under the Endangered Species Act, and owning them without a license or permit from the state is a criminal offense.
Additionally, it is illegal to own an endangered turtle species without a license or permit from the state. Missouri has 18 species of turtles, and all but three are protected. The state has implemented these laws to protect the turtle population and ensure their survival.
If you find an injured or sick sea turtle, it is important to contact the Missouri Department of Conservation immediately. They have trained professionals who can take care of the turtle and release it back into the wild.
Why Those Laws Exist
Missouri has a variety of laws in place to protect turtles. These laws exist to ensure that turtles are not overexploited, their habitats are not destroyed, and they are not hunted or poached illegally. The following are some of the reasons why these laws are necessary:
Protection of Endangered Species
Missouri is home to several species of turtles that are endangered or threatened. These species include the box turtle, the ornate box turtle, the alligator snapping turtle, and the common map turtle. These species are vulnerable to habitat loss, poaching, and other threats. The laws in place aim to protect these species from further decline and extinction.
Prevention of Poaching
Turtles are often poached for their meat, shells, and eggs. Poaching can have a significant impact on turtle populations, especially for species that are already endangered. The laws in place aim to prevent poaching and protect turtles from illegal hunting.
Habitat Loss
Turtles rely on specific habitats for survival. These habitats include rivers, streams, wetlands, and forests. Habitat loss due to development, pollution, and other factors can have a significant impact on turtle populations. The laws in place aim to protect turtle habitats and prevent further loss.
Water Pollution
Turtles are sensitive to water pollution, which can affect their health and survival. Pollution can also impact the quality of their habitat and the food they eat. The laws in place aim to prevent water pollution and protect turtle habitats.
Conclusion
Missouri has several laws in place to protect its native turtle species from over-harvesting and commercialization. It is illegal to sell wild-caught turtles, and commercial collection of common snapping turtles and softshell turtles is allowed only in certain waters. Alligator Snappers are protected and may not be taken.
It is important to note that some species of turtles are not native to Missouri, and therefore can be commercialized without a permit. However, it is still illegal to sell or commercialize any of the seven sea turtle species, including Loggerhead turtles, Green sea turtles, Leatherback turtles, Hawksbill turtles, Kemp’s ridley turtles, Olive ridley turtles, and Flatback turtles.
In addition, shooting turtles with firearms is prohibited, and there is a daily limit of 5 each for softshells taken between Jul 1 and Dec 31. There is no closed season for Snappers, but a maximum of five (5) specimens of any native turtle species except Western Chicken turtles, Blanding’s turtles, Illinois Mud turtles can be taken.
Resources
If you’re interested in learning more about Missouri turtle laws, there are a number of resources available to you. Here are a few that may be helpful:
- Missouri Department of Conservation: The Missouri Department of Conservation is a great resource for information on Missouri’s wildlife and natural resources. Their website includes information on Missouri’s turtle species, as well as regulations and laws pertaining to turtles in the state.
- Missouri State Statutes: If you want to read the actual laws pertaining to turtles in Missouri, you can find them in the Missouri State Statutes. Specifically, you’ll want to look at Chapter 578, which covers animal abuse and neglect.
- Local Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers: If you come across a turtle in need of help, you can contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center. They can provide you with information on how to care for the turtle, as well as any legal requirements for keeping it.
It’s important to note that while these resources can be helpful, they are not a substitute for legal advice. If you have specific questions about Missouri turtle laws, it’s best to consult with a lawyer who is familiar with the relevant statutes and regulations.
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