Remember that wild turtles should never be taken home as pets. Be sure that you buy your turtle from a reputable store or breeder and that it is not wild caught. Turtles can live a long time – up to 80 years for some species!
Can I keep a baby turtle I found?
You should return the turtle to where it was found and release it as soon as possible. … It’ll be used to eating “turtle food” and living in confinement, and won’t be as easily stressed as a wild-caught critter. Don’t forget, these animals can live 25 to 30 years, so it’s a long-term commitment.
Can I keep a turtle I found outside?
Taking a turtle from its natural habitat to make a pet of it is frowned upon by wildlife experts and is illegal in some areas. Dedicate an area of your yard for the turtle’s habitat. Even small turtles need a large space in which to dwell, at least a 6 x 6-foot enclosure.
Is it cruel to keep a turtle as a pet?
Turtles let loose might die, and they might carry disease that kills other turtles. If they live, they can out-compete native species for food and habitat, threatening native biodiversity. … To protect your health, the earth and the animals, please don’t get a turtle for a pet!
What is the lifespan of turtles?
Even so, if an individual survives to adulthood, it will likely have a life span of two to three decades. In the wild, American box turtles (Terrapene carolina) regularly live more than 30 years. Obviously, sea turtles requiring 40 to 50 years to mature will have life spans reaching at least 60 to 70 years.
Where should I put a baby turtle?
Help the turtle on its way
Don’t put it directly in the water – place it on the bank a foot or two away, and watch to see that everything goes smoothly. If there is no water nearby, or there is some other cause for concern, contact a wildlife rehabilitator for advice.
How do you raise a baby turtle?
How to Care for a Pet Turtle
- Set Up a Tank. A turtle’s indoor habitat should be at least 40 gallons to allow for growth to adult size. …
- Set Up Temperature Control. …
- Find Out How Much Your Turtle Should Hibernate. …
- Provide Food. …
- Clean Tank and Change Water Frequently. …
- Do Not Play with Your Turtle Often. …
- Wash Your Hands.
What food kills turtles?
Potato leaves contain toxic compounds – neither you nor your box turtle should eat them.
- The leaves of rhubarb, potato and tobacco plants.
- Avocado peel, seeds and leaves.
- Tomato leaves and vines.
- Poison ivy.