Read About Choosing Turtles and Tortoises

Choosing turtles and tortoises takes time and research. Turtles and tortoises require special habitats, special handling, special diets, and most of all special knowledge. Before choosing a turtle or tortoise, research their care and feeding. Many turtles and tortoises have lifespan of fifteen to twenty years Imageor more, so choosing one for a pet is not a decision that should be made lightly.

The terms “turtle” and “tortoise” can be used somewhat interchangeably, and often are. In the U.S., the term tortoise usually refers to a specific type of land-dwelling turtle, with a high, dome-shaped shell and thick hind legs. Tortoises use water for drinking or some bathing, but do not live in the water. By contrast, the term turtle is more inclusive, referring to any member of the order of testudines. Choosing a turtle or tortoise that is right for you means considering habitat and care needs carefully.

Consider where and how your pet will live when choosing turtles and tortoises. The environment for your pet turtle depends largely on whether it is a land turtle or water turtle. Land turtles and tortoises require an enclosure with a soft area for bedding and a space for water. Some experts recommend against using a glass tank or aquarium because the environment can easily become overheated. Some land turtles are adept at climbing, so make sure the walls are high enough to keep your pet turtle in.

Water turtles require water in their environment. A glass aquarium is ideal for this, provided it holds water at least as deep as your pet is wide. Observe your turtle to see how well he swims, and add water if he is a strong swimmer. Even water turtles need a break from swimming, so be sure your turtle also has a dry place to rest.

Humidity is another important environmental factor for turtles and tortoises. Turtles will benefit from humidity levels that are as similar as possible to their natural habitat. Humidity can be controlled by your choice of substrate, as well as by humidity adding equipment like misters. For tortoises from very dry environments, a substrate of rock, sand, or gravel usually works well. For dry environments, it is especially important to have good airflow. Substrates that retain moisture, such as moss or bark mulch are good choices for turtles requiring more humidity in their environments.

Keep dietary needs in mind when choosing turtles and tortoises. As a very general rule, most tortoises and land turtles are herbivorous, meaning their diet consists entirely of plant matter. Aquatic turtles are usually carnivorous,Image meaning the majority of their diet (65-90%) consists of meat, with the remaining portion made up of plant matter. Semi-aquatic turtles are most often omnivorous; their diets are usually roughly equally split between meat and plant matter.

Young turtles usually get along with one another, but that normally changes as they mature. Take this into consideration when choosing turtles or tortoises. If you get more than one young turtle, plan to move them to separate enclosures as they get older. Choosing turtles and tortoises with their long-term care needs in mind is important.

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