Owning a turtle is a lot of work. After your read that sentence, do you think its true?? Well, it is. But it actually isn’t really too much. A tank properly set up, is the only hard work. I realized I should of done more when I had my turtles. But here is some of my research and some of what I think.
The turtle that I got, was called a Red Ear Slider.
I did my research, to find out what my turtles needed. To live a longer and healthier life. I needed a light for the tank, an island (so they could float on- to dry their shell when needed).
Turtles Eat Goldfish!!! Did You Know That???
I found out later, you can’t add goldfish to the tank. Because they eat them. I watched my little turtles, eat all my goldfish once I added them to the tank.
So never again, did I add them to the water. Only later on, because they got so big. And they ate more, so I purchased feeder goldfish for them.
My Oldest Turtle was Almost 20 Years Old!!!
Now, 20 years old, sure does sound like alot of years to have a turtle. But actually I never even noticed that it was that long!!
He had a huge tank, I changed the water often. I had a routine for his care. Is probably why I never noticed the years go by.
I even brought him outside to get some sun. I let him roam in the backyard. Of course, had to watch out for eagles and the crows. Cause they thought he was dinner. So I babysat him while I had him in the backyard.
My other turtles lived to be 10 years old and a couple only lived a few years. Maybe it was because they were in the same tank. I don’t know. But I never did go and get more after they died. I just kept on, with the ones I had left.
What A Tank For A Turtle Needs
You can’t just get a small tank and add water. They need a big tank, even just a 26 gallon tank for starter. If your having more than 2 in a tank.
- big tank
- heater for the water
- light for the tank
- heat lamp for them
- floating island
- small decorations
- cover (so not to escape)
So Remember Owning A Turtle Is A Lot Of Work!
So when you do decide on getting a turtle, research on what you may need for their care. Because owning a turtle is a lot of work, even though you think it may be easy.
Or maybe you would just want to stick with the pets or pets, that you already own. And just care for them.
