My mom found a turtle on the road and brought it to me and my kids because we recently lost our box turtle. After doing some internet looking it seems to be an eastern painted turtle; that is fairly friendly ( dosen't mind being handled), but does have a sowllen ear on one side (ruptured ear drum?)( could that be why he is so passive) and since it is not native to Colorado and was found near a pond should he be returned (much to the dismay of my youngest :) ) or would he make a good pet? and I say he like I know what I'm talking about:) My othe concern is a new set up. I read some on housing and such, but thought a few more opnions couldn't hurt because it is so different from a box turtle. Thanks for all your help.

Turtles do get infected ears so it could be that. It could also be a botfly larvae. I suggest taking the turtle to a vet, turtle person, or wildlife rehabilitator for treatment either way. There are Midland and Western painted turtles too which may be native to CO. Are you sure it's an Eastern painted turtle? I suggest finding out for sure the species and what to do. In the mean time, you can take care of him. My page on turtles is at http://www.fishpondinfo.com/turtles/index.htm and has general information. My turtle (an Eastern redbellied turtle) is a lot of work. Since you have to do water changes, they're more work than box turtles.

Good luck!