The water turtle became a popular pet due to its easy care, something that can help introduce children to a responsibility. But when it comes to food we get into doubts and, sometimes, we make mistakes out of ignorance. The amount of food that a water turtle should eat is usually one of the most repeated doubts in the daily clinic. Here, on our site, we will clear up some doubts for you to live more peacefully in the company of this beautiful and ancient reptile.
Keep reading and find out what is the nutrition for water turtles to start offering them the best possible quality of life.
What do terrapins eat in the wild?
For fans of this species it will not be a novelty to tell you that they are omnivorous reptiles, which means that they feed on meat, fish and vegetablesIn the wild, depending on the species, we have some that are more carnivorous and others that are more vegetarian. We must be attentive to this fact and consult with the veterinarian whenever we have doubts to give it the most appropriate food according to the species to which our turtle belongs.
Another very important fact is that normally they are animals with a great appetite, sometimes eating voraciously. On the contrary, if the turtle does not show an appetite and/or rejects food, it will be reason enough to worry and go to a specialist. Sometimes it is due to the temperature that is not adequate or the cleanliness of the fish tank, but you have to be very attentive to this.
What should a domestic terrapin eat?
The adequate amount of daily food for water turtles is usually a very important issue, since as we said, they are animals that always have an appetite, so we can make the mistake of believing that they are hungry. The basic food is usually a special feed for turtles, so as it is commercial, it will facilitate rationing with the indications that appear on the package. But, in general, we should give it daily.
The food or live feed is usually a problem, as there are owners who refuse this type of food. We must remember what species we have as a pet and what its needs are to live happily and vitally. If we are not willing to assume this commitment, we should not have a water turtle as a pet, since having it in captivity will depend exclusively on us for its food. Live food sharpens our pet's senses and nourishes it, as is the case with crickets (the most common) or beetles (be careful, the latter are aggressive). We can also supply earthworms and/or snails. The right amount will be 1 time a week
We must not forget about fruits, vegetables and aquatic plants. This goes into live food, so 1 time per week will be fine. Within the good fruits for water turtles we have:
- Soft apple pulp
- Pear
- Cantaloupe
- Watermelon
- Figs
- Bananas
Citrus should always be excluded. On the other hand, within the vegetables suitable for turtles we have aquatic plants such as lettuce and duckweed. Among the most popular vegetables we can name:
- Lettuce
- Carrot
- Cucumber
- Radish
- Beetroot
Spinach and cabbage should always be avoided, as their consumption is not recommended for terrapins.
How often should a terrapin eat?
As we commented in the previous section, the amount of daily food for water turtles will be stipulated depending on the species of turtle to which our companion belongs. However, this is not the only question that comes to mind when we decide to share our life with a turtle, and that is that frequency is another question that we must resolve to offer it the best quality of life. Thus, according to the age of the turtle we must feed it following the following parameters:
- Youth: 1 time/day
- Subadult: every 2 days
- Adults: 2 times/week
