Turtle Care
Caring for turtles is a very important part of owning a turtle.
As a pet owner, you will no doubt want to give your little turtle all the “turtle care” in the world.
This will make sure he/she grows to be strong and healthy.
What do turtles eat? Of course giving your turtles the right types of food is a very important part of turtle care.
There are many things to know about turtle food to make sure your turtle stays alive and well.
In general, it’s important that a turtle has a varied diet. A general rule of thumb for turtle diets is to feed them 50% protein (meat-based) foods and 50% plant-based, vitamin-rich foods.
Turtles As Pets For Beginners
Depending where you live depends on what turtle is best for your pet. In America the painted turtle is a common and one of the easier turtles to take care of. You can find more information about keeping a painted turtle as a pet here.
You have to be prepared for the long haul before you decide on getting a turtle as a pet. Painted turtles have been known to live up to 50 years in captivity. Whilst their average age is normally around 30 years.
The box turtle is another common turtle through America and can be easily found to purchase.
In Australia the long neck turtle is a common pet but they cannot be taken from the wild. You have to purchase one from a licenced reptile breeder or owner.
The turtles as pets for beginners are quite strong and hearty turtles. I understand that being new to having a pet turtle is exciting but it is extremely important that you do not over feed your new friend.
Old and uneaten food needs to be removed from the tank so it does not turn the water rancid.
Equipment Needed For Turtle Care
Baby turtles up to 6”/15cm in shell-length are normally kept indoors in glass tanks or enclosures that include ponds.
The smallest tank for the tiniest turtles should be at least 4’/120cm long, 18”/45cm wide, and 18”/45cm tall.
Part of good turtle care is making sure your turtle has a safe place to swim from which they can climb in and out.
They also need to be able to bask in warm sunlight or appropriate artificial lights.
In setting up a habitat for your pet turtle you can use gravel, objects for your turtle to lie on such as logs and islands, a water filter and also a submersible water heater.
You should check on the requirements of your turtle species as it’s often a good idea to add a little bit of aquarium salt to the water. You should consult a pet expert before doing so.
What you will need in order to take proper care of your turtle will also depend on whether they will live indoors or outdoors.
Exercise For Pet Turtles
Turtles need a lot of exercise – which surprises many people. You should make sure your turtle has plenty of room to swim around and also access to “land” structures.
Some turtles love to climb around out of the water as well as swim. Exercise is an essential part of turtle care and should never be ignored.