Aquatic turtles

Contrary to a widespread belief, not all aquatic turtles are carnivorous: a few species are (especially when young), some become herbivorous in adulthood, but the great majority are omnivorous. These animals live a long time and several species are protected.

Its living environment

The ideal set-up is an outdoor pond with ledges allowing the turtle to come out and bask in the sun, along with aquatic plants. Tropical species, which are more sensitive to cold, must spend the cold season in a heated aquarium. In an aquarium, nature is never truly recreated: the absolute priority is therefore impeccable hygiene (cleaning the tank about once a month, the filter two to three times). Always provide a land area, taking up about one third of the surface.

Its diet

Offer the most varied food possible, suited to the species: plant matter (dandelion, cos lettuce, beet leaves, chard, spinach, etc.), a little animal protein (whole fresh fish, bloodworms, snails, pieces of lean meat) and reptile pellets. Feed adults two to three times a week, juveniles every day. For calcium, leave oyster or egg shells, or a cuttlebone, at the bottom of the pond.

Absolutely to be avoided: dog and cat food, fatty or processed meat (ham, minced steak, brains), certain oily fish (sardine, herring, anchovy) and goldfish. If in doubt, ask a vet for advice.

Breeding and hibernation

The male can be recognised by his thicker tail base. Take care: at mating time, the male may behave violently towards a female that is not receptive — only put them together occasionally. After laying (in a nest dug in the ground), collect the eggs promptly without turning them over (this kills the embryo) so they can be placed in an incubator. Species from temperate climates hibernate in the pond; in that case provide a shelter and piles of vegetation where they can take refuge.

Content from the Au Furet veterinary practice, rewritten for owners.