Species of Turtle: A Guide to Popular Pet Turtles

Turtles offer a wide range of options as pets, from small and charming species to larger, more demanding ones. However, making the right choice is crucial, as turtles can live for decades and may grow up to 50 cm or more. Many rescue centres and zoos are unable to take unwanted turtles, so responsible ownership and careful research before acquisition are essential. Turtles generally prefer minimal handling and are not suitable pets for young children.

This guide introduces some popular species of freshwater turtles commonly found in the pet trade. It aims to provide helpful insight into their care and characteristics so you can decide which species might suit your lifestyle best.

Sliders and Cooters (Trachemys and Pseudemys species)

Starting small, sliders and cooters are often sold as hatchlings about the size of a 50p coin. They are among the most common turtles sold in pet stores but may not be ideal for beginner keepers. These turtles grow relatively fast, reaching 20 cm or more within a few years and requiring a tank of at least 300 litres with a strong external filter and frequent water changes. Their messiness rivals even the most untidy fish tanks. They can be territorial and aggressive if housed together and are adept escape artists. Some sliders can survive in outdoor ponds in the UK, but others with southern genetics or weaker immune systems may not thrive outdoors. Full-grown sliders can reach the size of a toilet seat, needing tanks nearing 700 litres.

Though hatchlings display bright colouring, adults often dull to darker shades. They can recognise and come to their keepers for food but generally prefer not to be handled. They are better appreciated by observation rather than cuddling, keeping in mind they can carry salmonella and thus require hygiene precautions.

Maps (Graptemys species)

Map turtles are generally smaller and slower growing than sliders. Most reach up to 20 cm. Named for the map-like lines on their shells, popular types include Mississippi Map, False Map, and Ouachita Map turtles, which grow toward the larger size. Rarer species such as Black Knobbed and Texas Map turtles remain smaller but are less common in the pet trade. Map turtles are a good option for those wanting a manageable sized pet with distinct markings.

Musk Turtles (Sternotherus species)

Musk turtles, especially the Common Musk or "Stinkpot," are among the most suitable pet turtles. They grow to about 15 cm, making them manageable in size. Known as stinkpots for their ability to release a foul odour from glands under their shells, this behaviour is rare in captivity. Females are more prevalent in the trade, so it's worth choosing a female name. Although primarily aquatic, musk turtles require UV light and a basking area. Musk turtles tend to walk along the bottom more than swim, so a tank with a larger footprint rather than height is preferable. Provide multiple routes for surfacing to breathe.

Mud Turtles (Kinosternon species)

Mud turtles are often mistaken for musk turtles but have distinct behaviours. Mississippi Muds are friendly and enjoy basking more than musk turtles. They frequently spend time on land, so ample space for dry basking is important. White-lipped mud turtles are smaller and more colourful but may show aggression toward other turtles. Mud turtles offer an interesting semi-aquatic pet option requiring both terrestrial and aquatic spaces.

Snappers (Chelydra and Macrochelys species)

Snapping turtles, such as Common and Alligator snappers, are not suitable for most pet owners. Growing up to 60 cm and weighing over 100 kg, they require a very large habitat and extensive commitment. Their powerful jaws can inflict serious injury, and handling should be avoided whenever possible. Although increasing in rescue centres, snappers are expensive and demanding pets that live up to 50 years, requiring long-term planning for their care and eventual legacy. They prefer live food, but feeding live prey is legally restricted under the Animal Welfare Act and must be done ethically to prevent unnecessary suffering.

European Pond Turtles (Emys orbicularis)

Once native to the UK, European pond turtles are well-adapted to our climate but now endangered due to habitat loss and competition from invasive species like sliders and cooters. They reach 20-25 cm and make a fine choice for a larger tank. These turtles can become quite tame, recognising their keepers and displaying engaging personalities. Their shells are mostly dark with subtle yellow facial markings, which may be less colourful but have a charm of their own.

Wood Turtles (Rhinoclemmys pulcherrima manni)

Wood turtles are semi-aquatic species from Central and South America. They are brightly marked with red and yellow on their heads and shells. Reaching about 20 cm, they require environments with a spacious land area and a smaller water section to bathe and drink. They prefer high humidity and warmer temperatures, suiting vivariums rather than typical aquarium setups. Wood turtles can be kept in groups but watch for aggression and competition over food. Wood turtles are known for their friendly and interactive nature, often recognising their keepers eagerly.

Asian Leaf Turtles (Cyclemys species)

Asian leaf turtles face significant threats in the wild due to food markets and smuggling, with many species under threat of extinction. These turtles reach about 25 cm and have a nearly circular shell shape giving them a larger volume than similarly sized turtles. They split their time between land and water equally. Poor swimmers compared to other aquatic turtles, they require accessible swimming enclosures where they can easily reach the surface from the bottom. Asian leaf turtles need both terrestrial and aquatic habitat components in equal measure.

Many of the species mentioned here may not be available in all pet stores but can be sourced through specialist breeders or rehoming networks. Always conduct thorough research before acquiring a turtle, and seek responsible, reputable breeders to avoid contributing to illegal trade or captive welfare issues. Enjoy discovering the unique charm of turtles and the rewards of responsible pet ownership.