my children found a turtle on the side of the road. of course they had to bring it home! so while this is not totally a big deal, i have no idea what to feed the turtle, what kind of turtle it is or how to care for it. HELP HELP HELP..... my biggest fear is the turtle suffering or dieing. what should i do????

It is a very big deal for the turtle. You should return the turtle to where it was found ASAP. There are a number of reasons - it's illegal in most places to take a wild turtle; the turtle can't make more turtles in captivity; and if you don't have the time, money, and resources to care for the turtle, he could get sick or even die. If you can't return him, then find a local wildlife rehabiliator or turtle person at your local herp club.

If you keep him anyway, then you need to find out the species and proper care ASAP. Turtles require a good amount of time and care and supplies as far as animals go. For identification, you can send me a photo (top, bottom, head, and side views are best). Depending on what species it is, the turtle may have to live on land or in water and will eat different things. No matter what species it is, most turtles won't resist small worms and insects. For example, you can buy mealworms at most pet stores and try those.

My turtle page - http://www.fishpondinfo.com/turtles/index.htm

Specifically, read http://www.fishpondinfo.com/turtles/turintro.htm#faq