Do not take it home or release it elsewhere on your own initiative. You need to distinguish the circumstances, condition and possible species. A tortoise should not be put in water, and an aquatic turtle should not be released into a pond.
1. Observe without creating another danger
Keep enough distance not to make the animal flee. Keep dogs and curious onlookers away. Do not step into traffic or enter a dangerous area to reach it. If people are at risk or there is an emergency, call 112 and describe the situation; for a non-urgent case, contact the relevant local services.
2. If it is injured, seek instructions promptly
A damaged shell, bleeding or obvious difficulty calls for contact with a vet or a suitable rescue service. Explain that you have found the animal and ask how to help and whom to hand it to. Do not improvise treatment, feeding or relocation.
3. Record what is needed, privately
Note the time, general circumstances, condition observed and location to share directly with the authority. If you can do so without disturbance, photograph the animal from a useful distance. Do not turn it over to photograph the plastron, and do not publish its precise location.
4. Establish who should take responsibility
For questions about wildlife or protected species in Italy, contact the Carabinieri Forestali/CITES or the relevant local wildlife service. Rescue arrangements may be organised locally: ask who should receive the animal, how to contact them and how any handover should take place.
An animal being near a house does not prove it is a pet; nor does a meadow prove it belongs to the local wild population. Do not hand it to strangers who claim it without verification.
The Foundation is not an emergency rescue service
You may send us an editorial question, but do not wait for our reply before seeking help if an animal or people are at risk. We do not promise to take in or collect animals, or provide authorisations.
