Found an injured animal?
Here's what to do — and what to avoid — while you wait for guidance from a licensed rehabilitator. SERC provides turtle rescue, reptile rescue, and amphibian rehabilitation across Hampton Roads and Southeastern Virginia.
Does it actually need help?
- ✕ Visible wounds, blood, or crushed shell
- ✕ Can't move normally or right itself
- ✕ Open-mouth or labored breathing
- ✕ Unresponsive or extremely lethargic
- ✕ Entangled in netting or fishing line
- ✕ Attacked by a dog or cat — even without visible wounds
- ✓ Turtle crossing a road or in a yard
- ✓ Snake basking or crossing a path
- ✓ Frog or toad near water or in a garden
- ✓ Hatchling turtle heading toward water
- ✓ Animal that retreats when approached
What to do
If it does appear injured, follow these steps.
Don't immediately pick it up. Watch from a short distance and let the animal's movement tell you what you're dealing with.
Take clear photos before touching anything — top, side, close-up if possible. Note the exact address or GPS pin. Photos and location are the most important things we need.
Place in a cardboard box with a lid and a few air holes. Line it with a dry cloth or paper towel. No food, water, or heating pads. Keep in a quiet, dark, room-temperature space away from pets.
Email info@southeastreptile.org or text 757-324-3720 with your photos, the species (best guess is fine), where you found it, and what it's doing. We'll tell you exactly what to do next.
Who we can — and can't — help
✓ We can help
- → Native Virginia turtles
- → Native frogs, toads, and salamanders
- → Native non-venomous snakes
- → Native lizards and skinks
✕ We can't help
- → Exotic or purchased pet reptiles (purchased turtles, tortoises, ball pythons, etc.)
- → Venomous snakes — Virginia DWR
- → Sea turtles — VAST: 757-385-7575
- → Birds or mammals: 757-255-8710
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I find an injured turtle or reptile in Virginia?
Stay back and observe first, then photograph the animal and note the exact location. If it's injured and small enough to handle safely, place it in a ventilated cardboard box lined with a dry cloth — no food, water, or heat. Then text SERC at 757-324-3720 with your photos and location.
Should I help a turtle cross the road?
Yes, if it's safe for you. Move it across in the direction it was already heading — never turn it around or relocate it elsewhere. Turtles have small home ranges and will try to return. If the turtle is injured, contain it and contact us instead.
Can I keep a wild turtle, snake, or frog I found?
No. Virginia law prohibits keeping most native reptiles and amphibians without a permit, and wild animals have specialized needs that are difficult to meet in captivity. Not sure what you found? Our Virginia field guide can help you identify it.
Who do I contact for an injured reptile or amphibian in Hampton Roads?
SERC is a licensed wildlife rehabilitator serving Hampton Roads and Southeastern Virginia. Text 757-324-3720 or email info@southeastreptile.org with photos, the animal's location, and a description of its condition.
Does SERC take pet turtles or non-native species?
We work with native and naturalized Virginia wildlife found in the wild. We can't take in exotic or purchased pet species such as tortoises, ball pythons, or bearded dragons, and we don't rehome unwanted pets. For exotic species, please contact a local reptile rescue.
Ready to reach out?
Send us your photos and location and we'll advise on next steps.
Contact us