Keeping Soft-Shelled Turtles as Pets: Care Guide

The soft-shelled turtle stands out among turtle species because it lacks the hard, brittle shell typical of most turtles. Their flexible, leathery shell gives them a distinct appearance and unique care needs. There are three recognised sub-species of soft-shelled turtles, each with differing sizes and natural habitats. With the right preparation and commitment, these turtles can make fascinating and rewarding pets for dedicated keepers.

If you are captivated by turtles but want a species that’s a little different, a soft-shelled turtle may be the perfect choice. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key care aspects to ensure your pet thrives.

The Three Types of Soft-Shelled Turtles

Understanding the variety of soft-shelled turtles helps in choosing the right species for your setup:

• Spiny Soft-Shelled Turtles: These turtles have various spiny projections on their shells that provide a rough texture. They are native to regions including Canada, Mexico, and parts of California.
• Smooth Soft-Shelled Turtles: Characterised by their smooth, shiny carapaces featuring striking spots and patterns, these turtles are found naturally in areas such as Florida, Texas, and New Mexico.
• Florida Soft-Shelled Turtles: The largest of the three, females can reach up to 20 inches across and weigh up to 40 pounds. Native to Florida and its panhandle, they require ample space if kept in captivity.

Housing Soft-Shelled Turtles

The species you select greatly affects tank size and setup requirements. For a soft-shelled turtle, a tank of at least 80 gallons is necessary, with 100 gallons or more preferred for the larger Florida variety.

Soft-shelled turtles are fragile due to their soft shells and sensitive skin. To protect them, the tank should have very clean, balanced water conditions with nothing sharp that could cause injury. Frequent water changes and reliable filtration are crucial because these turtles produce waste that can quickly degrade water quality.

A soft sand substrate replicates their natural riverbed environment and allows for healthy digging behaviour. Avoid gravel or sharp sand to prevent injuries. Adding driftwood, smooth rocks and live plants will create a stimulating and comfortable habitat for basking and hiding.

Lighting and Heating Requirements

Maintaining appropriate temperature and light conditions is essential for soft-shelled turtles. Water temperature ideally sits around the mid-70s Fahrenheit (about 24°C). Use aquarium heaters designed for reptile tanks to maintain this warmth.
The basking area should be warmer, with heat lamps providing direct warmth and a place for your turtle to dry off and absorb heat. Additionally, UVB lighting is essential to help your turtle metabolise calcium and maintain a healthy shell and bones. UVB lights should run for 10-12 hours daily on a timer to mimic natural daylight cycles.

Feeding Soft-Shelled Turtles

Soft-shelled turtles are carnivorous and thrive on a diet rich in protein. In the wild, their menu includes insects, small fish, amphibians and eggs. In captivity, you can feed floating turtle pellets supplemented with gut-loaded insects like crickets and mealworms. Feeding in the water mimics their natural behaviour and helps keep their habitat cleaner by reducing uneaten food.

Monitoring your turtle’s food intake and body condition regularly ensures they stay healthy. Remove uneaten food routinely and maintain good tank hygiene to reduce the risk of disease.

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Responsible Ownership and Final Thoughts

When selecting a soft-shelled turtle, it is best to choose captive-bred individuals from reputable sources to promote ethical pet ownership and help conserve wild populations. These turtles are delicate and require an owner willing to invest time into maintaining their environment and diet properly.

In summary, soft-shelled turtles make captivating pets for enthusiasts who can meet their specialised needs: a large, well-filtered aquatic tank with soft substrate, precise temperature and lighting control, and a carnivorous diet. With attentive care, these unique turtles can live healthy and enriching lives in captivity.