In the next 6-12 months I’ll be moving from Minnesota to Washington. I have two turtles, an African Sideneck (Pelomedusa variabilis) that I rescued 11 years ago, and a Western Painted (Chrysemys picta bellii) who’s been in my care for the last 26 years.
I am wondering if anyone has any advice on moving with turtles, if there are any rules or regulations either relating to flying with them or to Washington specifically that I need to be mindful of. Do I need any documentation from a vet or anything? I also have no idea what going through security with two turtles will entail, lol.
I will likely take them on a flight with me there and have their aquariums shipped along with the rest of my belongings to my new home. There will a window of time there where they won’t be in their habitats and so if anyone has any care guidance there I’d appreciate it.
Worst case scenario, I can’t bring them with me: are there any places in Minnesota that would be good places to ensure they find good homes?
As noted above, native species cannot be kept, so your painted turtle would not be able to be taken with. I would look for local reptile rescues in your area that may be able to take them, otherwise Snake Discovery in Maplewood, if you are close enough, has an adoption program.
In addition, most airlines do not allow reptiles in the main cabin, so your African sideneck, if allowed in WA state, would need to be put in cargo and would not go through security. It may be better to just have someone properly package and overnight it to you using the same methods as sellers on MM. You will have to check if Washington requires something like a certificate of veterinary inspection or entry permit to bring your animal into the state. That would likely be through the Department of Agriculture.