Monday, October 1, 2012

Caring for Turtles

By Cathy Doggins


In natural habitats, turtles are found in and around water, which is precisely how they will live in your home. They also need dry land to bask and dry out on, but for the most part the key to amphibian care is the water. Pet turtles don't require more than a 40 gallon tank,. The typical turtle will grow to between five and eleven inches. They have a long life of 20 to 40 years, so the decision to purchase a turtle is a long term obligation.

Deitary Requirements

Turtles consume a mix of insects and plants such as mealworms and bloodworms. Usually this consists of specially formulated pellets, worms, and green vegetables. As a treat turtles benefit from fruit such as a piece of organge. Dietary supplements are also needed such as calcium and vitamin D. Most types of turtles will refuse to eat unless they are in the water. The difficulty is that they're untidy eaters, causing a pet owner to either frequently change the water or feed the turtles in another habitat.

Turtles Need to Bask

Eveyr turtle enclosure needs an area for turtles to bask. They grants the turtle to heat the body, which keeps down the levels of bacteria and fungus on the shell. Every luxuriating area ought to have a UVB light. The lights makes it easier for the turtle to synthesize vitamin D, a factor that is critical for calcium absorption.

Habitat

As discussed, a healthy turtle means that there always needs to be healthy water. The water must be replaced at least 1x per week or even more if polluted with food, urine or feces. A turtle consumes the same water that they swim, eat and urinate in. In terms of basking or land areas, there are several materials available such as smooth slate or a plastic platform. Turtle cages can be made out of glass, plastic or habitats contained in outdoor ponds.

Turtles and Salmonella

You might have heard about the danger of salmonella poisoning from turtles. The danger is considered urgent enough that caretakers are advised not to permit kids un-monitored visits with turtles. Salmonella can also be spread by allowing a turtle to come in contact with a carpet or table. When kids touch the area contaminated by turtles they can contract the illness. When getting a turtle it's critical that an owner learn how to maintain a hygienic family environment.




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