Turtle Removal & Control in Indiana

Several turtle species are found in Indiana, with snapping turtles being the most common nuisance species. Snapping turtles can grow very large (up to 35 pounds) and are aggressive when handled, capable of inflicting serious bites. They prey on fish, waterfowl, and occasionally small pets near water. Snappers are often found traveling overland in late spring and early summer when females seek egg-laying sites. Other nuisance situations include turtles entering ponds stocked for fishing or entering window wells and basements. Licensed operators can safely remove and relocate snapping turtles and advise on pond management to reduce conflicts.

Common Turtle Issues

  • Large snapping turtles threatening pets and children near water
  • Predation on fish and waterfowl in ponds
  • Overland migration into yards and window wells in spring
  • Egg-laying in gardens, lawns, and landscaped areas

Prevention Tips

  • Install fencing around ponds stocked for recreation fishing
  • Never attempt to handle large snapping turtles — call a licensed operator
  • Allow overland-traveling turtles to pass through safely when possible
  • Install window well covers to prevent turtles and other wildlife from falling in

Find an Operator in Indiana

102 DNR-registered operators handle turtle in Indiana.

Contact: John Allen
Contact: Duane K. Springston
Contact: Kirk A. Neuner
Contact: Brycen Jackson
Contact: Joe Magiera
Contact: Dan Glock
Contact: Steve Harris
Contact: Cory McClung
Contact: Tyler McVey
Contact: Nick McVey
Contact: Emily Loveall
Contact: James Boyne, Jr.
Contact: Bruce Rhymer
Contact: Christopher Stienbarger
Contact: Charles Coffey
Contact: David Cole
Contact: Cody Fitzgerald
Contact: Timothy Hickey
Contact: Ryan Dotson
Contact: Jared Drake
Contact: Ethan Roach
Contact: Kitrick Koning
Contact: Kevin Puetz
Contact: Benjamin Gaither
Contact: Michael Goodroad
Contact: Sebastian Fields
Contact: Robert E. Lowe
Contact: William Cowan
Contact: Russell Simpson
Contact: Richard Toms
Contact: Patrick Hart
Contact: Logan Northcutt
Contact: Ethyn DeWeese
Contact: Ferlin Lee Woodfill
Contact: Justin Barbour
Contact: Carrie Campbell
Contact: Cody Moore
Contact: Tom Morelock
Contact: Nathaniel McKenzie
Contact: Jonathan Tankersley
Contact: Thomas A. Kendrick
Contact: Donald Roberts
Contact: David J. Fisher
Contact: Walker Tulloch
Contact: Terry VanSkyock
Contact: Merissa Valenzuela
Contact: Jeremiah Peters
Contact: Damon Atkins
5 counties
Contact: Andy Schindler
Contact: Ryan Olaughlin
Contact: Brandon McKnight
Contact: Chi Baldwin
Contact: Wen Smith
Contact: Brandon Runyon
Contact: Ein Freeman
Contact: Joshua Tart
Contact: Tyler Kloenhamer
Contact: Cal Dittmar
Contact: Richard Trask
Contact: William Schwab
Contact: Josh Trine
Contact: Kent VanProoyen
Contact: Michael Lyday
Contact: Deric Beroshok
Contact: Michael Tackett
Contact: Roy Riggs
Contact: Michael Prickett
Contact: Ryan Dick
Contact: Terry Sibert
Contact: Amanda Wright
Contact: Jordan Simale