The most popular turtles got that way for a reason. Turtles can be extremely rewarding pets. Some types of turtles can be very easy to care for and have longer life expectancies than other pet choices.
One of the most popular types of turtles is Box Turtles. These turtles grow to about six or so inches in length at maturity. Both sexes are green to brown and have yellow markings on their shells and bodies. Males have red eyes and some red marking son their legs while females usually have greenish eyes and might have some lighter green markings on their legs. The temperament of these turtles ranges from cantankerous to very mild. If they are used to being around people and held occasionally they come to trust that they will be taken care of. If you have a yard full of these turtles, you will be able to discern one turtle from another not only by markings, but also by personality and activities. Box Turtles like to eat just about anything as they are omnivores. Most of the time they will be just find eating fruits and vegetables and the insects they are able to catch (if loose in the yard) or that you provide for them. Commercial turtle foods are also available. They do like dog and cat food, but it can be higher in protein and fats than the turtle’s regular diet needs, so offer it sparingly to them. They are happy to wander loose in the back yard since it will closely resemble their natural habitat, although experts often recommend that turtles be kept in enclosures for their own protection.
Aquatic Turtles also have a large fan-base. The most popular aquatic turtle, Sliders, are also readily available at most pet stores. Most of their time will be spent in water, but they do need a little dry ground to visit. They like to dig in gravel or mud and bask in the sunlight to warm themselves. Sliders can be harder to tame and tend to be a bit nippy. Turtle bites do hurt, so be careful with them. They will need clean water because they can be susceptible to diseases which become more prevalent in stagnant water. You can also keep your Slider healthy by offering him a diet rich in nutritious food. They eat small fish, grub or meal worms, lettuce and commercial foods. Considering all these things it is also important to note that they will need an enclosure that will grow with them because they grow up to a foot in length.
Turtles can be great fun for the whole family. Ease of care and mild temperaments help distinguish the most popular turtles from all the rest.
