Keeping Turtles: A Complete Guide

Turtles are fascinating and engaging pets that can live both on land and in water. Whether you have a tortoise or an aquatic turtle, it is important to know how to properly care for these beautiful creatures. Here's a complete guide to keeping turtles indoors and outdoors, including diet, temperature and more.

1. Housing

- Inside:
For tortoises you can use a terrarium of a suitable size, depending on the species and size of the turtle. Provide a warm and dry environment with a UVB lamp for the turtle's health.

- Outside:
If you have enough outdoor space, consider building an outdoor terrarium or a special turtle enclosure. Provide shelter from the sun and predators, as well as a secure enclosure.

2. Nutrition

Turtles need a varied diet consisting of vegetables, fruits, insects and commercial turtle food. Beware of overfeeding and always provide fresh water for aquatic turtles to drink and swim in.

3. Temperature and lighting

The right temperature is essential for the well-being of turtles. Indoors, tortoises should have access to a warm basking spot with a temperature of about 30°C and a cooler spot of about 24°C. Aquatic turtles need a water temperature of 24-28°C. Provide UVB lighting to assist with calcium absorption and the turtle's overall health.

4. Water and swimming area

Aquatic turtles need a spacious water tank in which they can swim and dive. Make sure the water depth is sufficient for the turtle to dive and that there is a place where they can come out of the water to bask. Tortoises need a shallow water bowl to drink and hydrate themselves.

5. Hygiene and cleaning

Keep the turtle's environment clean by regularly changing the water, removing food remains and cleaning the terrarium or outdoor enclosure. Make sure the bedding is suitable and replace it if necessary.

6. Vet visits and monitoring

Schedule regular checkups with a reptile veterinarian to monitor your turtle's health and prevent any health problems. Regularly monitor the turtle's behavior, appetite and overall condition.

7. Administration obligation according to CITES

Turtles fall under the CITES regulations, which means that there is an administration obligation from the moment of purchase. When purchasing, you must receive a transfer statement with the necessary information about the animal and the parent animals. Terrafile is the platform to carry out this administration in an easy and correct way.

Keeping turtles requires dedication and care, but with the right knowledge and attention you can create a happy and healthy environment for these beautiful animals. Take the time to learn about the specific needs of your turtle species and enjoy the rewards of having these special pets.