Complete Guide to Keeping Turtles as Pets

Many people have memories of terrapins as pets—semi-aquatic creatures that may seem to just bite and create slime. However, keeping turtles as pets has become increasingly popular, with a variety of species offering unique and fascinating companionship. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about caring for a turtle, whether you choose an aquatic or terrestrial variety.

Choosing the Right Turtle Species for You

The first step in keeping turtles is selecting the right species according to your preference for aquatic or terrestrial pet keeping. Aquatic turtles such as the red-eared slider, mud turtle, musk turtle, and cooter require water-based environments, while terrestrial or 'box' turtles live on land and have different needs.

It’s highly recommended to purchase captive-bred turtles from reputable breeders rather than wild-caught specimens, as captive-bred turtles tend to be healthier and less stressed. Be mindful that both aquatic and terrestrial turtles can carry salmonella, so practising excellent hygiene after handling is crucial.

Bear in mind that terrestrial box turtles typically hibernate and are best acquired in spring or summer. They are long-lived creatures with lifespans up to 100 years, requiring specialised housing and climate control. Meanwhile, aquatic turtles need a less complex setup but still demand careful attention to water quality and temperature.

Note that some species like the red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) have been classified as invasive in the EU, with regulations affecting ownership, breeding, and sale. For more details, see the new EU Regulations on invasive species.

Housing Your Turtle: Creating the Perfect Habitat

Setup for Aquatic Turtles

Aquatic turtles require tanks with ample surface area—generally between 20-30 gallons as a starting point for juveniles, but adult turtles need much larger tanks (ideally upwards of 75 gallons). A tank that is wide rather than deep is preferable, with about six inches of water for swimming. A basking platform above water level is essential, allowing your turtle to warm itself.

Water quality is critical; turtles create significant waste, so invest in a high-capacity filtration system and perform regular water changes to keep the water clean and healthy. Maintain water temperatures between 25-27°C using an aquarium heater, and provide UVA/UVB lighting for 10-12 hours daily to support vitamin D synthesis and overall health.

Setup for Terrestrial Box Turtles

Terrestrial box turtles have distinct housing requirements. While juveniles can adapt to indoor enclosures, adult box turtles thrive outdoors in climates with mild, temperate weather. Their outdoor enclosure should include damp substrate such as sphagnum moss or a suitable soil mix to retain humidity and regularly mist the habitat to prevent drying out.

A pool large enough to swim in, shaded areas for protection from adverse weather, and secure fencing to prevent escape and deter predators are all essential components. Box turtles are social animals and benefit from living with others, so design an enclosure with enough space to house multiple individuals comfortably.

Specific to UK conditions, providing a waterproof heater during the colder months, especially in northern regions, helps prevent health problems like metabolic disorders.

Step-by-Step Guide to Hibernation

Hibernation is a natural phase for terrestrial turtles but requires cautious preparation. Ensure your turtle is in robust health before allowing it to hibernate, as unwell turtles might not survive the period.

Signs of preparing for hibernation include reduced activity, decreased appetite, and burrowing behavior. You can facilitate hibernation by providing natural cover such as leaves or old carpet in the enclosure or transferring the turtle to a hibernation box.

The hibernation box should have a damp substrate material like moss or soil to maintain humidity between 3-7°C. If temperatures fall below 2°C, the box should be relocated to a warmer location to ensure safety.

Feeding Your Turtle: Nutrition at Every Life Stage

Young turtles are typically carnivorous, thriving on diets rich in larvae, crickets, slugs, and earthworms. As they mature, many species become omnivorous and will accept a wider variety of foods including vegetables, fruits, and occasional protein sources.

They often enjoy mushrooms, apples, strawberries, green leafy vegetables, bananas, and pears. Feeding low-fat tinned dog food once weekly can supplement protein needs for older turtles. Vitamin and calcium supplements are often necessary to prevent nutritional deficiencies.

Ensure fresh water is available at all times, and consult a vet knowledgeable in reptile care for specific dietary recommendations tailored to your turtle’s species and age.

Essential Care Tips for Long-Term Well-being

• Hygiene: Always wash hands thoroughly after handling turtles or cleaning their habitat to prevent salmonella transmission.
• Regular Health Check-ups: Schedule veterinary examinations with a vet experienced in reptiles to monitor your turtle’s health and catch potential issues early.
• Environmental Monitoring: Regularly check and maintain temperature, humidity, water quality, and UV lighting requirements to keep your turtle comfortable and healthy.
• Social Needs: Assess compatibility if housing multiple turtles, especially males, to avoid aggression.
• Commitment: Remember that turtles are a decades-long commitment and planning for their full lifespan is essential.

Conclusion: Your Rewarding Journey with a Pet Turtle

Keeping turtles as pets is a unique and fulfilling experience that blends careful preparation with lasting companionship. By choosing the right species, providing suitable housing, preparing adequately for hibernation, and delivering balanced nutrition, you can enjoy a healthy and stimulated turtle for many years.

Responsible ownership and adherence to legal regulations help protect both your pet and the wider environment. Whether you opt for an aquatic or terrestrial species, the dedication you invest will be richly rewarded by the fascinating nature of these remarkable reptiles.