Shown above is a soft-shell, freshwater turtle. Until October of 2008, turtles like these could legally be taken in unlimited numbers. A temporary rule that limited the number that could be taken per day will be reviewed by the state in April, at which time the state could go back to the old, unlimited harvest or enact stricter limits.

FLORIDA BOARD PROPOSES BAN OF SALES OF FRESHWATER TURTLES - The staff of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Committee has proposed a complete ban on the commercial harvest and sale of wild freshwater turtles.  Click here for more details.

GOV. CRIST REQUESTS BAN ON TURTLE HUNTING - Governor Charlie Crist wrote a letter to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission asking the members to ban the harvesting of freshwater turtles in Florida. 

FWC Passes New Rule on Limits for Freshwater Turtle Harvests

SALMONELLA SURVEY - Marvin Bennett had a survey on table at three major reptile shows in 2007 to determine whether people who handle turtles on a regular basis are affected by salmonella.  Check out the survey at the link (Microsoft powerpoint required) to see the results for yourself.