Look After Baby Turtles - Determine what type of baby turtle you have. Turtles either live in water (aquatic) or on land (terrestrial). Care is similar in many aspects, but differs when it comes to habitat. The painted, mud, red-eared slider and yellow belly slider are common aquatic turtles while the box turtle is the most common land turtle.
Purchase an aquarium with a cover that is large enough for the turtle. The Michigan State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital recommends a 30-50 gallon tank. A good rule of thumb is to find out how long the turtle will be once full grown and base the tank size off that measurement. The aquarium should hold 10 gallons of water for every inch of the turtle. You can purchase a smaller aquarium for the baby turtle and a larger aquarium as it grows.
Look After Baby Turtles
Equip the aquarium according to the type of baby turtle. Land turtles only need a shallow dish of water for drinking and floating. Include a slope to allow the turtle to easily get in and out of the dish. For the bottom of the aquarium, lay down mulch or a moss-like substance. If the turtle begins eating it, switch to paper or cage carpet. Provide a shaded space for the land turtle to hide as well as a basking area.
Provide proper lighting for the turtle. Turtles are cold-blood animals and need help making Vitamin D to survive. Place a full spectrum, 50-watt UV-B light bulb 12 inches off the basking area. The light cannot penetrate through glass and should not be positioned outside the tank. Replace the bulb every five to seven months. Use a timer and schedule the light to remain on for 12-14 hours a day for land turtles and 10-12 hours a day for aquatic turtles.
Regulate the temperature in the aquarium. For aquatic turtles, the ideal water temperature is 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. To maintain the correct water temperature, use a submersible heater or a heating pad under the tank. In the basking area, the temperature for aquatic and land turtles should be 90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Place a 60-watt incandescent or basking light on top of the aquarium cover and over the land area for heat.
Baby turtles seem like effortless pets. These tiny creatures typically live in one space and do not require walks or playtime like other animals. Yet the decision to bring home a baby turtle should not be taken lightly. Turtles can live up to 30 to 40 years with proper care that includes a very specific habitat and diet. Looking after a baby turtle requires daily feeding and consistent clean up. Whether an aquatic or land species, turtles can make enjoyable pets for those who are willing to put in the time and effort for their care. - by eHow
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