Pet Turtle Care: Protecting Sea Turtles

Pet Turtle Care

Sea turtles are being protected around the world. National parks are set up along with farms and other organizations that are attempting to protect them. Sea turtles are a difficult animal to protect though because of their migratory habits. They aren''t the kind to stay in one place, and they only come ashore to nest. Most males will never come out of the water once they enter the ocean as a hatchling. The only time they may be seen out of the water is if they are basking in the sun.
Tagging and conservation is a big part of protecting the sea turtles. Tagging helps see the patterns where females are nesting, and helps determine migratory habits.

In Mexico we got to be a part of the protection of the sea turtles. Down the beach from where we were staying was a park protecting the sea turtles. The rangers were there and described sea turtles to us. They told us they were endangered, so they were protecting them. Also, moving the eggs to a safe environment would protect them from predators. Only about one in every thousand that hatch actually survives in the wild, so getting as many to hatch as possible is a good thing.

We got to hold the turtles, and then went down to the water when it got dark out. They took the baby turtles down there too. We all stood in a line where the water just reached us. They gave everyone 2 or 3 baby sea turtles that we let go into the water. None of us were able to move after we let them go because not all of them made it to the water right away. It was a neat experience to see that many baby sea turtles going into the water.

In Costa Rica they also have a park that is protecting the sea turtles. We were able to actually stay at the reserve as volunteers this time though. The volunteers get to go along on the beach patrols. Every night all night someone is patrolling the beaches to make sure every nesting female is tagged, and that they nest is accounted for. They want to know how many eggs are laid, and everything about the nesting female.

If the female hasn''t already been tagged, the ranger or a volunteer will tag the female. This is done with a hand held gun which is similar to piercing your ear. They always check the female first with a transmitter to see if she has been tagged though.

There is a whole sheet of paper work to fill out when a nesting female is seen. They fill out where she was, the date, the time, and how she came to the shore. They want to know everything, so all the paper work must be filled out correctly.

At this park, there is also a hatchery the eggs are taken to. This is the same type of thing as in Mexico, where they are giving every turtle the best chance possible for survival.

Article source: http://www.thefreelibrary.com

Pet Turtle Care: Common Turtle Species

Pet Turtle Care

Turtles are cold-blooded reptiles. They have a shell making them unique from other reptiles. Their upper shell is called the carapace, and a lower shell that protects the belly called the plastron. The carapace and plastron shape and color varies from species to species. One might think it would at least always be a hard shell, which also is untrue. There are softshell turtle species, along with many others.

Some turtle species include Clemmys insculpta which is the wood turtle; Geochelone sulcata which is the African Spurred tortoise; Chelonia mydas which is the green turtle; Emydoidea blandingii which is the Blanding''s turtle; Clemmys guttata which is the spotted turtle; Malaclemys terrapin which is the diamondback terrapin; and Trachemys s. elegans which is the red-eared slider.

The species name for the wood turtle is Clemmys insculpta. This turtle is the largest in its genus. The carapace has raised projections on the back that resemble a small pyramid, making it different from others in the Clemmys genus.

The wood turtle is omnivorous and eats things like algae, moss, blueberries, mollusks, insects, earthworms, and mice. Typically adult males are larger than adult females, but not by a whole lot.

The species name for the African Spurred tortoise is Geochelone sulcata. The African Spurred Tortoise is the only tortoise in the world that has adapted fully for terrestrial life. The turtle is famous for digging burrows to protect itself from predators and the temperature. This turtle can go weeks without food or water. When the turtle does get a chance to drink water though, it can drink up to 15% of its body weight.

The species name for the green turtle is Chelonia mydas. Adult green turtles have a different diet than juvenile green turtles. Adults are herbivores eating plants and juveniles are carnivores eating meat. Adults usually spend their time in patches of sea grass and algae to get their food, while juveniles spend their time among the coral reef. Adults preferred food is young leaves and roots of sea vegetation. Juveniles eat animals such as jellyfish, sponges, snails, bivalves, and others.

This turtle is a medium to large sea turtle that has a broad, low, heart-shaped carapace.

Most of their lives are spent in the water but females return to the land to lay their eggs. The eggs take about two months to incubate, and then hatch. As most turtles are, green turtles possess environmental sex determination. Temperature of the nest determines the sex of the hatchling. Warmer temperatures produce females, and cooler temperatures produce males.

Green turtles are found throughout the oceans of the world. Populations are endangered or threatened everywhere.

The Blanding''s turtle is a northern turtle that has a black carapace with tan to yellow spots on the scutes. Its species name is Emydoidea blandingii. Sometimes this turtle is confused with the box turtle because of similar appearances.

This turtle lives in clean, shallow water habitats. They like abundant aquatic vegetation, and firm aquatic bottoms in ponds, lakes, marshes, and creeks. However, preferences in habitat can change seasonally and by location. In Wisconsin, the Blanding''s turtle prefers marshes over ponds, which is just a location preference. Turtles elsewhere may choose a pond over a marsh.

This turtle nests once a year usually from late-May to early July during the night. However, not every female nests every year.

The common name for Clemmys guttata is the spotted turtle. This is a small, black turtle that has a pattern on its smooth carapace with small yellow spots. Over time the spots may fade, making older turtles appear spotless.

Male spotted turtles tend to have tan chins with brown eyes differing from the females who tend to have yellow chins and orange eyes.

These turtles live in areas that are shallow wetlands. This can consist of swamps, bogs, fens, and marshes, but not confined to just these areas.

Spotted turtles are active during they day for the most part, meaning they are diurnal. However, females are active at night while they are nesting.

Spotted turtles are preyed upon by bald eagles, skunks, and raccoons.

The species name for the Diamondback Terrapin is Malaclemys terrapin. This turtle is a small to medium size turtle which feeds on sponges, bryozoans, gastropods, crabs, carrion, and plant material.

They have a hingeless plastron which can be yellow to green or black, and an oblong carapace is gray, light brown or black. They can be found in estuaries and salt marshes.

Nesting for these turtles is different from a majority of turtles because it is during the day. Most turtles tend to nest during the night. High tide is the most usual time for this particular turtle to nest.

The red-eared slider is native to the United States. It is commonly found in the Southern regions. The species name for it is Trachemys s. elegans.

When the red-eared slider is young it is carnivorous, but as it ages they become more vegetarian. They are a medium size and have a dark green oval shell. Their legs are green with think yellow stripes. The head is also green, but it has a red stripe behind the eye.

These turtles are found in most permanent slow-moving bodies of water. They prefer areas with mud bottoms.

Pet Turtle Care: FDA Warns Consumers Not to Buy Pet Turtles

Pet Turtle Care

What do 1,000 yellow-bellied sliders and Mississippi map turtles have to do with public health? They can make people very sick.

Strictly Reptiles Inc., a wildlife dealer in Hollywood, Fla., sold 1,000 baby yellow-bellied sliders and Mississippi map turtles to a souvenir shop in Panama City, Fla., violating a Food and Drug Administration ban on small pet turtles designed to protect the public from the disease-causing bacteria Salmonella, the agency says.

Turtles often carry Salmonella on their outer skin and shell surfaces, and people can get Salmonella infection by coming in contact with turtles or their habitats.

"The illegal sale of these pet turtles put one of our most vulnerable populations -- children -- at risk for becoming very sick," said Philip Walsky, assistant special agent in charge in FDA's the Office of Criminal Investigations headquarters office.

All reptiles (turtles, lizards, snakes) and amphibians (frogs, salamanders) are commonly contaminated with Salmonella. The bacteria do not make these animals sick, but they can make people ill and even be life-threatening to children, elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.

Small pet turtles are of particular concern because children are more prone to handling the turtles without washing their hands afterwards, and even putting the turtles in their mouths.

In 1975, FDA banned the sale of small pet turtles -- those with shells less than four inches long. Infectious disease specialists estimate that banning small turtles prevents 100,000 Salmonella infections in children each year in the United States. The ban excludes small turtles when they are used for educational, exhibitional, or scientific purposes -- not as pets.

Despite the ban several widespread outbreaks of Salmonella infection related to undersized turtles have been reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in recent years.

In 2007, two teenaged girls in South Carolina became very ill with bloody diarrhea, cramps, fever, and vomiting after they swam in an unchlorinated, in-ground pool where the family's pet turtles had also been allowed to swim.

The same strain of Salmonella found in the teenaged girls was also found in 101 other people in 32 states who were reported ill between early May 2007 and mid-January 2008, according to CDC. When 80 of these people were questioned, 47 of them confirmed that they had been exposed to a turtle during the seven days before they got sick.

In February 2007, the tragic death of a four-week-old baby in Florida was linked to Salmonella from a small pet turtle.

The owner of Strictly Reptiles admitted to OCI agents that he intentionally did not ask customers their purpose for purchasing the turtles in order not to lose sales.

On March 3, 2008, Strictly Reptiles sold about 1,000 undersized turtles to a souvenir business for $2.75 to $3.00 each. The souvenir business, in turn, sold the undersized turtles for $14.99 each.

At sentencing, the court ordered a criminal fine of $5,000, the forfeiture of more than 6,300 turtles, and two years' probation that allows federal agents to inspect sales records of all Strictly Reptiles' live turtles.

The court further ordered Strictly Reptiles to obtain a signed document from every buyer of undersized turtles that indicates the buyer is aware of the legal restrictions placed on the sale, or holding for sale, of these turtles.

1. Don't buy small turtles for pets or as gifts.

2. If your family is expecting a child, remove any pet turtle (or other reptile or amphibian) from the home before the infant arrives.

3. Keep turtles out of homes with children under five years old, elderly people, or others with weakened immune systems.

4. Do not allow turtles to roam freely through the house, especially in food preparation areas.

5. Do not clean turtle tanks or other supplies in the kitchen sink. Use bleach to disinfect a tub or other place where turtle habitats are cleaned.

6. Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching a turtle, its food or housing, or anything else that comes in contact with a turtle or its habitat.

7. Be aware that Salmonella infection can be caused by contact with turtles in petting zoos, parks, child day care facilities, or other locations.

8. Watch for symptoms of Salmonella infection, such as diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, and headache. Call your doctor if you or your family have any of these symptoms.

Article source: http://www.thefreelibrary.com

Pet Turtle Care: Making A Reptile Terrarium for Your Pet Turtle

Pet Turtle Care

A reptile terrarium suitable for an aquatic turtle can be made from an aquarium by adding about six inches of water and making a land area above the water. The land area can be built up from rocks or suitable aquarium decorations and should have a reptile lamp above it to provide heat.

Setting up the Terrarium

The Tank

Make sure you buy an aquarium that is big enough. At least a forty gallon tank is required for an adult turtle. Add about six inches of chlorine and chloramine free water and set up a filter and aquarium heater. External filters are preferable, as turtles can be remarkably curious and may cause themselves damage by investigating an internal heater. In addition turtles produce a great deal of waste so a powerful filter is needed. Hide the heater under some rocks to keep it out of harm''s way. It may not respond so rapidly to changes in temperature but that is preferable to causing distress or injury to your pet.

Use a water treatment solution sold in aquarium shops to remove both chlorine and chloramine which are added to water by your water authority. Turtles may eat sand or gravel so do not use these on the bottom of the tank and it will be easier to clean the glass bottom.

You can place a few artificial plants in the swimming area but avoid adding too many or your turtle will not have room to swim around. Do not use live plants as the turtle will eat them. To be healthy you need to make sure the water is clean so ensure the filter works correctly and clean the tank weekly.

The Land Area

The land area can be made from artificial rocks or decorations from a terrarium supply shop or use well cleaned rocks or bricks. An area where the turtle can hide is also needed so make a small artificial cave from rocks, wood or artificial terrarium decorations. Keep the temperature around 80F in the daytime cooling down to around 79F during the night.

Lighting

Attach both a UVB lamp and a full spectrum lamp to the lid. Turtles need UVB radiation in order to keep their bones and shell in good condition. UVB lamps are expensive and generally last only around six months but they are necessary to keep your turtle healthy. Turtles also need sunlight for at least twelve hours a day. You can also provide a basking lamp above the land area.

Aquarium lids are not really suitable as you need to attach the lamp to the lid. A plank of wood, suitable painted on the outside only can be use instead.

Turtles will also need a source of fresh water so place a small pan of water in the land area. You might think there is enough water around but the turtle will soon foul the swimming area!

Feeding Your Turtle

Commercially prepared turtle sticks can be used to feed your turtle. Mix in fruit and vegetables occasionally for variety . You can also give your pet leafy vegetables such as alfalfa, clover, lettuce and cabbage and an assortment of berries. Do not overfeed and remove any uneaten food before it starts to rot.

Pet turtle Care: Turtles A Truly Unique and Interesting Pet

Pet turtle Care

Turtles can be great pets and it''s a fact that children love turtles as their pets. These animals are very fascinating. And there are several types of them too.

If you decide to take a turtle for your pet, try to learn more about these animals first. They require proper care and a certain level of attention. There are some species that can be taken cared of by humans while there are others can''t be taken away from their natural habitats.

Generally speaking, there are two types of turtles that you can take home - the aquatic and the terrestrial types. Terrestrial turtles need a lot of time on land while aquatic turtles need to be in water most of the time. It is important that you know which type of turtle you''ve got so you can take care of it properly.

For terrestrial turtles, you have to prepare a big tank and some mud. Mud turtles need twelve hours worth of sunlight every day. If you can''t take them outside, use a UV lamp instead. Terrestrial turtles also need to be in a place with a temperature of 80 degrees during the day and 70 at night. And while these pets prefer the land, they also need fresh water to drink and swim about.

As for the aquatic turtles, the common species are the painted turtles and the sliders. The sliders want swampy areas. They live near the lakes that have lots of mud. They tend to go out in the sun in broad daylight and then swim during the night to cool off. But then, they still have to spend more time submerged in the water than out in the sun. Between the sliders and the painted turtles, the latter is the specie that is a lot harder to take care of because of the special things it needs.

At this point, you should have decided on the type of turtle you want. The next thing to think about is the size of the tank you''ll buy. You normally need a 40 gallon tank - or larger if you want a larger specie or if you want to take care of more than one turtle. The bigger the tank you have, the better your pet can move around in the water and over the land.

Plants are required, but you have to be sure that they''re not poisonous. Don''t put barks and wood chips in the tank either, as bacteria and molds might form on them. Turtles tend to munch on these things too, although their digestive tract can''t handle it. Instead, add some small rocks and mud for the turtle to play on.

As for food, your pet would need berries, lettuce, and some feed sticks. Some species eat goldfish and insects too. You also have to be very particular about the water these pets drink and swim on. Use mineral or spring water instead of tap water in the tank.

The chemicals and chlorine in tap water can be very harmful to your turtle pet. Chlorine and other chemicals in the tap water can cause bacteria in their digestive systems.

article source: http://www.thefreelibrary.com

Pet Turtle Care: Turtle Watching in Northern Cyprus

Pet Turtle Care

You may think you know everything there is to know about the island of Cyprus, but chances are that you are thinking of the tourist friendly south with its sandy beaches and towering hotel blocks. A holiday in Northern Cyprus is completely different and visitors are flocking to this region for a relaxing break, where they can experience the regions incredible wildlife, from the ample birdlife to the turtles which are indigenous to this area.

Turtle Watching in Northern Cyprus

Divers from all over the world book holidays in Northern Cyprus to see the colourful fishes of the area and it seems that the region?s rich marine life is also responsible for introducing sea turtles to Northern Cyprus. These enigmatic creatures were once found all over beaches in the Mediterranean, but the artificial lights of modern hotel developments and nightclubs confuse the baby turtles that naturally make their way towards the moon on hatching from their mother?s eggs. The animals now face near extinction, but whilst on your holiday in Northern Cyprus you can see these incredible baby animals for yourself and help get involved in their plight.

The best beach in Northern Cyprus to spot sea turtles is the Alagadi Beach, located near Girne on the Karpaz Peninsula. This beach has been declared a protected area for both the green and loggerhead turtles that lay their eggs in the sand here during the month of May. The baby turtles hatch two months later in July, where they will make their way towards the moon and into the warm Mediterranean Ocean where they will reunite with their parents.

Alagadi Beach, is located just ten minutes away from the main tourist resort of Kyrenia and can be easily reached on your Northern Cyprus holiday. Tourists are welcome to observe the turtles at any time, but there are plenty of organisations that you can join if you want to help with their conservation during your holiday to Northern Cyprus. The Society for the Protection of Turtles or SPOT carries out nightly surveys of hatching activity during the month of July. If you get involved with this charity during your Northern Cyprus holiday then you could find your evenings spent observing hatching sights and releasing baby turtles into the sea. This is extremely rewarding and a great way to give something back to the local community.

If you just wish to observe the turtles whilst on holiday in Northern Cyprus then there are a number of rules and precautions that you need to take, particularly around the area of Alagadi Beach. These precautions have been introduced by the Department of Environmental Protection and should be observed during the turtles breeding months of May to October. One such precaution prohibits the throwing of plastic carrier bags into the ocean as baby turtles often mistake these for jelly fish and attempt to eat them, resulting in death. The use of artificial lights and speedboats are also banned for obvious reasons.

With just one baby turtle surviving out of 1,000 eggs it is extremely important that these measures are put in place in order to prevent the sea turtle population from extinction. A holiday in Northern Cyprus can be an extremely rewarding affair which allows you to contribute towards the welfare of the sea turtle whilst relaxing in the breathtaking scenery of this historic region.

Article source: http://www.thefreelibrary.com

Pet Turtle Care : Box Turtles

Pet Turtle Care

The American Box turtles are widespread throughout the eastern states from Maine to Georgia and Alabama and west to the Mississippi River. Three subspecies of box turtles extend its range well into Texas, along the Gulf Coast, and to Florida, while a closely related species occupies a wide range in the prairie country west of the Mississippi.

The box turtles average between five and six inches in length. The colors of this turtles are fairly constant, but the markings are extremely variable, in fact, it is not often that one can find two individuals that are marked alike.

The box turtles are mainly terrestrial, although it can be found in more or less swampy or marshy country. They are fair swimmers and occasionally are seen in both fresh water ponds and salty lagoons. But for the most part, box turtles are at home in open grassy woodlands, pastures and meadows, and sunny hillsides thickets. During hot and dry periods, however, the box turtle often seeks some drying-out mud hole in the woods and partially buries itself in the deep mire.

Young box turtles are omnivorous feeder. While they are stay pretty close to marshes and other moist situations, they eat mostly animals, such as worms and insect larvae. The adult box turtles seem to prefer fruits, mushrooms, tender grasses and leaves; although they will accept worms, slugs and other similar animal. Captive turtles will eat fruits and berries of many kinds and are especially fond of overripe bananas.

Box turtles are invariably timid creatures and may be kept as pets without any fear and bites. When first captured they show a reluctance to leave the protection of their Shell and may remain tightly closed up for an hour and more. However, they eventually screw up enough courage to venture a look around and in due time become very tame. They are rather more intelligent than the strictly aquatic turtles and can be taught to beg for food and to take it from your fingers.

Laying 4 - 5 eggs on June or July, the female excavates a shallow, flask-shaped nest, working with her hind feet. Hatchlings takes place in the fall, and the little turtles go into hibernation soon after. Their lifespan about 30 - 40 years recorded in captivity. Some individuals have lived more than one hundred years.

The Florida box turtles, Terrapene Carolina bauri
This subspecies can be found in Florida. The shell of Florida box turtles is more elongate than common box turtles, with its highest part well back from the middle of the shell, over the rump. The markings on the carapace lean more to long, unbroken radiating lines of bright yellow in place of the star like clusters of spots. There are usually two well-defined yellowish lines on the side of the head, and in most cases there are but three toes on each hind foot.

The Gulf Coast Box Turtles (Terrapene Carolina major)
Range along the Gulf Coast from Texas to Florida. Seven inches or more in length, this subspecies is the largest of the American box turtles. With a well-domed shell that is highest in the center, the color is dark and is sometimes without markings. The plastron is generally blacks. In this subspecies the hind foot has four toes.

Three-toed box turtles (Terrapene Carolina triunguis)
Three-toed box turtle has a narrow shell that is well arched, well keeled and flaring a little at rear margin. The carapace is brown with irregular yellowish scrawls, with the plastron solid black as a rule. The head and limbs, especially the forelimbs, are heavily spotted with brown and yellow.

Three-toed box turtles may be found mostly west of the Mississippi river, from Texas through Colorado to northern Missouri. This turtle is sometimes known as the midland box turtle.

The general habits of these three subspecies of box turtle are substantially the same as those of the typical form.

Avicenna has written various articles about exotic pets related topics, including Pet snake, and pet turtles.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Yazid_Avicenna

Pet Turtle Care : Bacteria Infections in Turtles

Pet Turtle Care

Common Bacteria in Turtles

Slow moving and hard shelled, turtles make fun pets but have a bit of a down side. Tortoises and turtles often suffer bacterial infections that cause disease. The good thing is that with the proper housing, nutrition, and sanitation these infections can be avoided for the most part. Being familiar with the different types of bacterial infections that your turtle or tortoise could succumb to is an important part of keeping your slow moving friend feeling good.

Eye infections and conjunctivitis

Eye infections typically occur on the surface of the cornea, but can also develop in the eyelids creating irritation and swelling. It begins as a small white spot and as the infection progresses it can spread over the entire surface and create an ulcer on the eye. Eye infections are cause either by contaminated water (if in aquatic or semi-aquatic turtles) or low humidity (in tortoises). Treatment usually consists of topical antibiotic eye drops.

Cloactis

This is a bacterial infection of the cloaca that results in an inflamed cloacal opening and a foul smelling discharge. These are often associated with parasitic infections, or sone-like cloacal calculus. The stone must be removed and parasitic infection treated (if any) before irrigating the cloacal area. The irritant is a dilute Betadine or chlorhexidine solution. The last part of treatment is applying a topical antibiotic ointment to the cloacal opening.

Necrotic Stomatitis

Commonly known as mouth rot, necrotic stomatits is often caused by the bacteria Pseudomonas or Aeromonas. Mild cases can be treated by swabbing the infected area with diluted Betadine. However, a more advanced case needs to be treated with antibiotics. Turtle ailments like a poor jaw alignment or mouth injury predispose them to mouth rot.

Pneumonia

Turtles and tortoises suffer pneumonia in one of two forms, acute and chronic. Acute pneumonia can appear suddenly and cause death in just a matter of hours if not treated quickly. Symptoms include respiratory distress, coughing, and disorientation. Chronic pneumonia causes turtle’s to have respiratory distress and chronic nasal discharge. Treatment for both acute and chronic pneumonia includes injecting antibiotics.

Ear abscesses

Ear abscesses are a very common problem that most turtles face. Symptoms include swelling of the tympanic membrane and discharge of pus into the back of the throat. It is sometime hard to identify that ear abscesses have formed, so treatment usually happens when they are in an advanced stage. In most cases the abscess must be surgically opened and drained.

For more information on common bacterial infections in turtles, visit your local Cincinnati vet clinics at www.cincinnativeterinarianclinics.com

Joseph Devine Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Devine

Pet Turtle Care : Easy to Find Exotic Types of Turtles

Pet Turtle Care

If you are going to get a turtle as your pet then you will probably visit a local pet store. The types of turtles that you will find in common pet stores around United States are native ones. This local native types of turtles are recommended for beginner turtle keepers. But, in time, if you have some experience with turtle care you can consider to buy some exotic types of turtles. The problem with exotic turtles is that if they aren't born in captivity then they will hardly adapt. but with proper care having an exotic turtle as your pet is not impossible.

One of the most common types of turtles in the United States pet stores is the Reeves Turtle. It's a small type of turtle that has some kind of rectangular shape. The carapace has a browny colour and the skin is green with yellow stripes. They are originary from Asia. they can be feed with different types of vegetables, worms, fish or turtle food. The turtle care guideline is similar to the sliders turtles.

Two other types of turtles would be Asian Yellow Pond Turtle (Mauremys mutica) and the Asian Leaf Turtle (Cyclemys dentata). They look much alike the Reeve's Turtle regarding size and shape. The coloration is predominated by yellow and brown. Keep in mind that are more therestrial turtles than the sliders and so they need a larger basking and land area. Following the turtle care advice for the Reeve's turtle you should have any problems in growing them.

The African Mud Turtle was recently imported in a large number. These types of turtles, although they are mud turtles, are very much alike the Painted turtles. They have brown carapace with yellow or gray skin. You can try to setups a slider enclousure for them and you shouldn't have any problems.

There are some other types of turtles that can be found in the pet stores but if you are really looking for a special type of exotic turtle than you should contact a reptile seller. There was a time when you could find Snake-neck turtles and Big-headed turtles on the pet stores market and maybe in time they will be imported in larger numbers again. This types of turtles have a really special look that you won't forget. The Snake-neck turtles have a very long neck, almost as long as their carapace. Big-headed Turtles, like their name says have a huge head that can't even retract in the shell.

So all in all there are some types of exotic turtles on the United States pet market but if you are a beginner in growing turtles then i advise you to take a native one in your home.

If you are looking for information on different common types of turtles, visit us at one of the best turtle care advice site.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ispas_Marin

Pet Turtle Care : Buying And Care Tips When Considering Box Turtles As Exotic Pets

Pet Turtle Care

Keeping box turtles as exotic pets may be a good decision for many people, since they are easy to live with and easy to maintain. It is also very enjoyable to witness these creatures grow and live. Interested in having box turtles as exotic pets? Here are some tips that might be useful for you before buying ones.

First, avoid buying box turtles during cold seasons, because box turtles hibernate during such seasons. If you keep buying them anyway, your box turtles will probably get stressed out due to the dehydration and starvation that comes with the hibernation time.

When choosing box turtles, check for its strong reflexes by gently tugging its hind leg and seeing if it quickly and strongly pulls its legs away. A good box turtle would feel solid and weighty when you pick it up. The face and limbs should have no swellings, the eyes should be alert and clear. There should be no discolorations or slime on the shell.

Boxed turtles live well both indoors and outdoors. If you want to keep them indoor, an 36 by 12 inches aquarium is a good idea. And it would be better if you install an aquarium heater to maintain a 77-96 degree F temperature on the aquarium, since turtles tend to become sluggish and lose their appetite when the temperature is low. Box turtles prefer living on slightly moistened potting soil that have no coarse substrates that may damage their shells, so there should be enough water for the turtle to dip in and climb out as it wants. And don't forget to keep the aquarium clean.

Last but not least, don't forget to feed your box turtles once every morning for youngsters, and every other day for adults. Combining varied vegetables with canned dog food are recommended for your box turtles, but you can also feed them with chicken liver, earthworms, slugs and small insects. You may also provide food sources like fruits and green vegetables that are best for terrapins.

One thing that you should realize is that being an exotic pet owner requires a lot of responsibility. You should always assess yourself if you can really provide care for your exotic pets. You should plan very well so that you can prepare properly once you have decided to own exotic pets.

Or more information about Exotic Pets please visit http://www.YourExoticPets.com

There you can also find exotic pet health and care tips, exotic pet buying tips, and so much more!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Deeo_Nyssa

Pet Turtle Care : Proper Turtle Care

Pet Turtle Care

Like most amphibians and reptiles, turtles are an exotically, fascinating species that many folks raise as pets owing to their 'novelty factor' and the fact that they need little "love" and attention. If you have large furry animals as pets, the pertaining to their care in terms of immunization, shots, operation and expensive accessories like dog houses, toys and grooming products is an inevitable expenditure and costly. By contrast, turtle care isn't as time consuming, expensive, and complicated provided they too are looked after with utmost care in regards to their diet, habitat arrangements and treatment to ensure a healthy and long life.

To keep your pet turtles safe, secure, and comfortable, you have to undertake a few measures like providing ample of room space to survive in, appropriate lighting, clean water and a basking lamp. If you want to keep your pet turtle free from any disease or infection, three rules of the thumb must be regularly administered: proper temperature in the aquarium, good water quality and regulated feeding habits. Your turtle's aquarium must be filled 2/3rd with water for swimming purposes and the remainder 1/3rd should be spared for basking reasons that is inculcated by bringing in a full spectrum ultra-violet light source. To ensure longevity and reduce the infections your turtle can get, it is very important to keep the water in the aquarium very clean and devoid of any contaminants with may be an aquarium filtration system. Algae can easy grow on a turtles shell. A strict regime must be followed when it comes to thoroughly cleaning the interiors as well as the exteriors of the aquarium. The very minimum is once a month but twice a month is much better.

When feeding your turtle, carry it out in another small holding tank, away from its normal enclosure as uneaten food and leftovers will invite disease causing microorganisms. If you are concerned about your turtles hygiene, rinse it's shell with slightly warm water after each feed. Make sure he is only feed proper turtle food.

Turtle care is a job for responsible adults. If not cleaned often and taken care of diligently, turtles emit a foul smell that can get unbearable. Avoid using tap water to fill your turtle's tank because tap water generally harbors chemicals like fluoride and chlorine which can cause the pH balance to go haywire. For swimming purposes, dechlorinated water must be utilized and filtered water for drinking.

Turtles are certainly interesting pets to raise, simply watch and interact with. They bring along a lot of selfless excitement and enjoyment for you and your family and in return expect a stable home and loads of love. However, it is important to care for them properly otherwise they will get sick and die. Without proper care, turtle shells will get bacterial infections. Be sure to take care of all the needs of your turtles.

Matt is the owner of many pet turtles and has been taking care of them for many years now. You can read more about turtle care and turtle tanks at his website on taking care of turtles.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_Kepnes

Pet Turtle Care : Owning pet turtle

Pet Turtle Care

Turtles are one of the most popular, exotic and fascinating creatures available in a pet store. If you are thinking of adopting a pet turtle, your main prerogative must be to be well informed and aware of the techniques for creating a suitable habitat for your turtle, including a dry area and a wet area. Did you know that turtles can live up to 40-50 years old? You pet's going to be your companion for most of your life. Don't they deserve the best possible care you can give them? To ensure that your pet turtle is delivered high maintenance and proper care, you need to be well endowed with the basic information regarding your pet turtle's care, treatment, diet and factual data.

Pet turtles flourish the best when they are kept outside in the open. Turtles are animals that indulge in hibernation during the winter months and if they are confined inside during those months, they will not but obviously not hibernate as they will not know what time of the year it is. In case they fail to hibernate, it may invite unwelcome health ailments of the liver. Further, pet turtles must be permitted to stay out in the natural environment to enjoy heat of the sun, graze on grass and marvel in the fresh surroundings.

If you decide otherwise and keep your pets largely indoors, then make sure you provide at least a forty gallon tank size in which your turtle can swim around freely. This is essential because there needs to be enough elbow space for a water only area as well as a dry land area and sufficient room between the two for the turtle to survive comfortably. A minimum of 1/3rd of the tank must be devoted to land and a part of this dry land must have direct access to rays provided by a UV light. The best way to offer this is to have large, flat rocks under the lamp that gives the turtle ample area to bask themselves. A temperature of about 80 degrees during the day and 70degress during the night must be regulated and maintained.

Unfortunately but true, turtles are not pets that are meant to be played with. They are best to be observed and watched from a distance through the walls of the tank. Turtles are cold blooded pets and hence it takes them a while to adapt to change in temperature. Taking a turtle out from its comfortable warm tank gives them quite a shock and could also hurt their immune system. Proper turtle care and maintenance commands for it to be as unchanging and predictable as possible. Most turtles, both land and water based, require a similar diet consisting of fresh, leafy greens and vegetables. Some kinds of land based turtles such as the box turtles or tortoise do not demand very extensive habitats and a very basic but safe enclosed outdoor housing is sufficient. Other turtle and terrapins, by contrast require both a dry as well as a wet environment.

Caring for and tending to turtles can be extremely rewarding and satisfying provided it is executed with a sense of commitment and integrity. If you are looking for a quiet and serene but still an exotic and affectionate animal to raise as a pet, you must consider a turtle. Most pet owners are ultimately satisfied with their decision and despite the fact that turtles are not huggable and cuddly pets, they exude warmth and love like any other four legged pet.

Matt has been raising and taking care of pets for a number of years. He owns 5 right now. You can find out more about turtle care at his website and about getting the right turtle tank.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_Kepnes

Pet Turtle Care : Food to Give Red Eared Slider Turtles

Pet Turtle Care

When it comes to feeding your red eared slider turtle you have to make sure that you are giving them the right amount of vegetation and animal protein. Make sure that you are feeding them a balance between the two so that they are getting the right amount of nutrients and vitamins.

As babies they need to eat large amount of animal protein because they have a very large carnivorous side to them. However, it is still a good thing to feed them a few vegetable materials.

Don't be surprised though if they don't eat much of the vegetation till they are older. When they become adults you can pull back on the animal materials and feed them mostly vegetation.

You can offer red eared slider pellet food. They have a bit a mixture of the right amount of vitamins and minerals. They are sometimes more convenient for pet owners. But this should not be the only thing that you feed them. It is great if you mix their food up a bit to keep them from getting bored and to make sure that they are getting all of the nutrients that they need to be healthy.

Food To Feed Red Eared Sliders

When it comes to feeding them you can give them earthworms, live feeder fish (this includes goldfish, guppies, minnows), waxworms, crickets, aquatic snails, daphnia, earthworms, silkworms, mealworms, and blood worms. These should only be given to small turtles. Adult red eared slider should eat larger animal items.

When feeding turtles vegetation stick with collard, kale, bok choy, mustard, dandelions greens, and dark green leaf lettuce. Never feed them iceberg lettuce because it does not have much nutrition.

If your turtle lives in a pond or aquarium you can always add aquatic plants to feed them. They love to snack on submerged plants like frog-bit, water hyacinth, water lettuce, azolla, anacharis, and duckweed.

Turtle Pet Care is a great site to teach people what it takes to take care of a pet turtle. You need to know how they should live, what kind to get, and of course how to make sure that they stay healthy.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Naomi_West

Pet Turtle Care : Looking After Aquatic Turtles

Pet Turtle Care

If you are interested in keeping a pet turtle in your home, there are a lot of different types to choose from, including those who can live in dry habitats and those that require wet habitats. Whichever kind of pet turtle you choose, you should know what caring for it involves and what it takes to look after turtles at home.

One of the first and most important things that you should consider when looking for a pet turtle is whether you want an aquatic turtle or a turtle that lives in a dry habitat. If you choose an aquatic turtle, also known as a water turtle, you need to be sure that you have the right kind of equipment in your home to properly provide for its care.

Aquatic turtles generally have shells that are softer and lighter in color than those of land based turtles. This helps them to stay in the water without sinking and to swim faster and with more agility than larger turtles or land based turtles. They have different colorings and markings on their shells, showing the kind of turtle they are and where they come from.

Semi-aquatic turtles make excellent pets to have in your home. You need to make sure, however, that you provide a suitable environment for them which includes both an area to swim around in and a basking ground with plenty of sunshine (or a UV lamp). The temperature of the environment needs to be carefully regulated. The water should be kept cooler than the rest of the habitat.

You should also keep in mind that aquatic turtles, like most other types of turtles kept as pets, do have a long life expectancy; some breeds live for many decades while some can even go up to a hundred years!

They are prone to various diseases so make sure to carefully note any changes in their behavior. Give special attention to the condition of their shell, as this is usually an indicator if something is wrong with your turtle. They need plenty of fresh vegetables to eat and a shallow bowl of fresh drinking water available to them at all times. Aquatic turtles can indeed make wonderful pets.

Do you need more information about caring for water turtles?please visit: Aquatic Turtles

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Bryan

Pet Turtle Care : Top Tips on Choosing the Right Turtle Tanks

Pet Turtle Care

When you decide to keep a turtle as a pet, you have to invest in turtle tanks to put the turtles in. Turtles are low maintenance creatures and once they have settled down in their tanks, they really require nothing much except clean, fresh, bacteria-free water that is aerated.

In terms of maintenance, they are as demanding as fishes - meaning, they are not demanding at all. Give your turtle its freedom in the turtle tanks and it will be more than happy, paddling by itself and sometimes looking out for its owner or following simple commands.

Turtles are extremely hassle-free pets.

Necessity of turtle tanks

Even before you buy your favorite species of turtle, you need to decide on the tank as a turtle requires a proper natural habitat to survive.

A spacious roomy turtle tank with clean, fresh, bacteria-free, aerated water is necessary to prevent the development of skin and shell disease and ear abscess which are results of poor hygiene. It may even turn fatal. You should also never overcrowd the tank with more turtles than it can fit.

Set up a turtle tank outside the home, close to nature, in a corner of your yard where the turtle will feel happiest. Your yard should be a safe place, short of predators or environmental concerns.

Don't keep your turtle tank out in the yard if you spray pesticides on your plants. It will be harmful for your turtle.

Living outside in the open, in harmony with nature will ensure that a turtle knows when it's time to go into hibernation. A proper hibernation ensures a healthy liver. If you keep the turtle inside your home, it won't be able to determine the right time to hibernate and may fall prey to liver damage.

Size of turtle tanks

40-gallon turtle tanks should be the minimum size. You may want to go for a bigger tank (as needed), but it should certainly not be smaller than this as turtles require roomy habitats.

Features of turtle tanks

Must haves in a turtle tanks are:

• A dry land area

• A bit of marshy region

• Water area

Most turtles that are kept as pets are amphibians that paddle about in the water and love to bask in the sun on a dry piece of land. They should be able to submerge themselves completely in the water and at the same time stick their heads out of their shells comfortably. Water depth can't be more than 2 feet. Appetite-whetting plants should be planted in the marsh.

For tips on box turtle care and turtle breeding, visit the Turtle Facts website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_J_Lee

Pet Turtle Care : Box Turtle Care

Pet Turtle Care

Congratulations, you have a new box turtle. But how do you take care of your precious new friend? Taking care of a box turtle can take some work, but there are simple steps to ensure that your box turtle is happy in his new home.

First you must decide housing for the turtle. Will you keep it indoors or outdoors? If you decide to keep the turtle outside, make sure that the area is similar to the turtle’s natural habitat. There should be plenty of sun since box turtles are reptiles, but also shade in case the turtle becomes overheated under the constant heat of the sun. Provide water for your turtle so that it is deep enough for swimming. The home should have weed-like plants and insects for consumption. An outdoor setting is probably the home a turtle would choose. However, an indoor home properly made will keep your box turtle just as happy and safe.

If you build your turtle a home indoors, use a container like those made by Rubbermaid. The best option is to have a large, dark container that the turtle cannot see through. A turtle can become perplexed and frightened looking out of a clear container. One of my box turtles constantly tried to climb through the wall of his clear container, so I had to move him. The container should be large and filled a few inches deep with a substrate such as “Bed-a-Beast.” Then provide a hiding place for the turtle such as a hollow log. You should make a pool for the turtle since that is where a turtle usually poops. I used the plastic lid of a container for food. Make sure that the pool is not too deep. Every day, keep the entire tank moist by spraying the surfaces of the home.

Inside the home of the turtle, keep the temperature fairly warm in the lighted area- about 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Use UV-B light to keep the turtle healthy and active all day. Another option is to take your turtle outside to soak in the sun for about an hour a day. The natural sunlight is tremendously healthy for your turtle, although he may not enjoy it at first. Just remember, you know what’s best for your turtle. Keep an area away from the light so that the turtle can rest there when he’s had enough light. This is why it is important to have a container that is large enough for two distinct areas.

The food a turtle eats is obviously very important to its health. A person must watch his or her own diet. It is your responsibility, however, to feed your turtle healthy foods. A turtle will eat almost anything, from fruits and vegetables to insects and worms. Another factor you should consider is providing edible materials with high calcium levels such as boiled eggshells or a cuttlebone that you can buy at any pet store. One final hint to feeding your turtle- have fun with it. Be creative in feeding your turtle from day to day because you do not want to create an addiction to one food by feeding it the same thing each day. Keep the turtle’s diet balanced with half plant and half meat.

I have a few final hints below on how to take care of your new box turtle.

1. If your turtle does not eat, try soaking the food in water first. Or, if you are constantly there watching your turtle, he may never come eat the food. Unfortunately, you can easily frighten turtles, so leave your turtle alone to eat peacefully.

2. Change the water in an indoors home every day to keep it clean since that is the most likely place a turtle will defecate. When coaxing a turtle to do this, use warm water to help him.

3. If a turtle burrows deep into the substrate and does not come up for a few days, don’t worry. This is completely natural since turtles enjoy being in tight spaces. However, make sure that your turtle gets enough food.

4. Feed your turtle on a rock because this will help him scratch away extra-long toenails.

Just follow the easy tips above, and you will be an expert caretaker for your new turtle. Do not neglect your turtle since it is helpless without you. Be responsible and enjoy your friendship.

Joshua Park is a college student studying biology. He enjoys sports, comedic movies, and music. To learn more about box turtles or to read other articles this author has written, please visit http://www.true-money.com/ by clicking the link.

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Pet Turtle Care : What Type of Food Do Turtles Eat

Pet Turtle Care

What do turtles eat? It depends on the type of turtles, how old they are and where they are located. Generally, turtles are carnivores when they are young. However, they turn into omnivores or herbivores when they grow up and mature, depending on their type.

To answer the question "What do turtles eat?" we'll start by listing the common types of turtles and what they like to eat:

• While River Cooter turtles feed primarily on plants, Map turtles and Malayan Box turtles eat meat and lots of plants.

• American Box turtles feed on anything it gets.

• Meat forms the principle diet of the Chinese 3-Striped Box turtles.

• The Red-Eared Slider turtles end up being omnivores on maturity after starting off eating bugs and worms when they are young.

• Snapping turtles look for small creatures to eat, while most other turtles simply eat plants.

• Most turtles eat shellfish, insects, water plants or fish.

• To ward off predators, turtles often eat poisonous plants like poisonous rhubarb, ivy and avocado found near their habitat.

• Pond turtles in the US eat from a wide list consisting of insects, arthropods, small shellfish, snails, worms and small fish.

• Poisonous plants should not be in a pet turtle's diet as the owner may not know which plants they were acclimatized to in their natural surroundings.

• What pet turtles should eat is good and healthy food. If you bought the turtle from a pet store, they most likely also sell the food that the turtle eats.

• Aquatic turtles eat aquatic aquarium plants, small live fish, dried shrimp and floating turtle pellets found at the pet store.

• Land turtles eat special pellets made for land turtles. While some eat worms, others eat fruits, vegetables, and meal worms.

• Processed foods with high contents of salt and preservatives run a risk of damaging the turtle's digestive system.

• Milk or dairy products can make them sick and should be totally avoided as their stomachs lack the enzyme for breaking down lactose.

• Turtles sometimes eat fruits such as bananas, grapes, mangoes, blueberries, apples, strawberries and other citrus fruits.

• Turtles can also eat chicken, turkey, cooked fish in small quantities, mealworms, boiled eggs, earthworms, silkworms, shrimps, snails and crickets. Raw meat with too much fat can get contaminated and
should be avoided.

• Domestic turtles eat leafy vegetables like carrot tops, fig leaves, red and green lettuce, corn, green bean and peas, beets, squash, okra and plantain weed.

• Turtles also love to eat flowers like roses, pansies, petunias, borage, geraniums, carnations, hyssop and nasturtium.

• Phosphorus goes with the kind of food preferred by the turtle, but you should take precautions and watch out for the calcium intake and minerals like vitamin D3 in the turtle's diet as they have a direct bearing on its health. Vitamin D3 can be given as a dietary supplement if your turtle is lacking the vitamin. Exposure to sunlight or reptile light also helps in producing it in the turtle's body.

Want to find out about turtle habitat and types of turtles? Get tips from the Turtle Facts website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_J_Lee

Pet Turtle Care : A Truly Unique and Interesting Pet

Pet Turtle Care

Turtles can be great pets and it's a fact that children love turtles as their pets. These animals are very fascinating. And there are several types of them too.

If you decide to take a turtle for your pet, try to learn more about these animals first. They require proper care and a certain level of attention. There are some species that can be taken cared of by humans while there are others can't be taken away from their natural habitats.

Generally speaking, there are two types of turtles that you can take home - the aquatic and the terrestrial types. Terrestrial turtles need a lot of time on land while aquatic turtles need to be in water most of the time. It is important that you know which type of turtle you've got so you can take care of it properly.

For terrestrial turtles, you have to prepare a big tank and some mud. Mud turtles need twelve hours worth of sunlight every day. If you can't take them outside, use a UV lamp instead. Terrestrial turtles also need to be in a place with a temperature of 80 degrees during the day and 70 at night. And while these pets prefer the land, they also need fresh water to drink and swim about.

As for the aquatic turtles, the common species are the painted turtles and the sliders. The sliders want swampy areas. They live near the lakes that have lots of mud. They tend to go out in the sun in broad daylight and then swim during the night to cool off. But then, they still have to spend more time submerged in the water than out in the sun. Between the sliders and the painted turtles, the latter is the specie that is a lot harder to take care of because of the special things it needs.

At this point, you should have decided on the type of turtle you want. The next thing to think about is the size of the tank you'll buy. You normally need a 40 gallon tank - or larger if you want a larger specie or if you want to take care of more than one turtle. The bigger the tank you have, the better your pet can move around in the water and over the land.

Plants are required, but you have to be sure that they're not poisonous. Don't put barks and wood chips in the tank either, as bacteria and molds might form on them. Turtles tend to munch on these things too, although their digestive tract can't handle it. Instead, add some small rocks and mud for the turtle to play on.

As for food, your pet would need berries, lettuce, and some feed sticks. Some species eat goldfish and insects too. You also have to be very particular about the water these pets drink and swim on. Use mineral or spring water instead of tap water in the tank.

The chemicals and chlorine in tap water can be very harmful to your turtle pet. Chlorine and other chemicals in the tap water can cause bacteria in their digestive systems.

PetCareGuide.Org - pet care articles and tips. Read the review of the TurtleGuideBook - turtle pet care guide.

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Pet Turtle Care : Learn How to Take Care of Turtles Before You Buy Live Turtles For Sale

Pet Turtle Care

Most potential turtle owners are unaware that most pet turtles require a dry as well as a wet habitat, and that the temperature of these should be conducive for the turtle's well-being. A turtle needs a lot of fresh food. Clean, fresh water should be kept in a shallow bowl and should be readily accessible to the turtle. You should have the knowledge to be able to recognize the difference between male and female turtles because of their different care requirements.

Feeding A Proper Diet To Your Pet Turtles -

One needs to be sure that they are feeding their pet turtle the proper turtle food to sustain its life and be healthy. Generally turtles require fresh vegetables such as lettuce to stay healthy. However, there are species of turtles that require a meat based diet too.

Your Baby Turtle Will Not Stay A Baby For Long -

Usually one gets a baby turtle and then is amazed to see of fast the baby turtles turns into an adult. Obviously the food intake of your turtle increases when it becomes an adult but more importantly if you didn't foresee the rapid growth of your turtle and purchased a turtle habitat that is too small be prepared to be set back by $200 to $1000.

Caring For Turtles -

You should also know that turtles require daily care. Another popular myth is that turtles hibernate for months. This is untrue, so making sure that somebody is taking care of your pet turtles if your planning to go out of town. Checking your turtle on a regular and systematic basis to detect any early signs of an illness is also a must.s

If you do eventually decide to keep turtles as pets its important that you stay committed to their care to have a happy, healthy pet turtle. I've prepared the most complete Turtle Care Guide that answers all the questions of any potential or current turtle owner: http://willed.info/turtle-care-ahreview

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Pet Turtle Care : Turtle and Terrapin Care Sheets

Pet Turtle Care

When it comes to the care of your pet turtle or terrapin are you sure you know what you're doing? Or perhaps you've read up on it a little but find you keep forgetting important things, like changing its water every three days or so?

Turtles actually need a pretty well thought-out environment to live happily in, as well as a lot more care and attention than people realize.

Probably one of the best ways to keep reminding yourself of how to care for your pet is to pin a 'care sheet' somewhere really obvious, like above the turtle's tank for instance.

This care sheet can be one you print out from a good website or one you create yourself using information from different sources. In any case, the more research you do, the better.

One of the most important aspects to turtle care is, obviously enough, what you feed them. What are less obvious are the subtle differences between turtle types in terms of what to feed them and at what age. A general rule of thumb is if it's a baby turtle you feed it meat (cooked or fat-free) and as it gets older you start adding more and more leafy greens to its diet. Older turtles will be almost entirely herbivorous but a balanced diet is still essential.

But does a slider eat the same thing as a painted turtle? And what precisely does a terrapin eat? (A terrapin, by the way, is usually just the term used for pet turtle in the United Kingdom so you need to figure out what kind of 'terrapin' you have before finding the right care sheet for it.)

Further, what on earth is the right environment for a box turtle? (Also known as a tortoise, the box turtle is a fully terrestrial reptile so do not put it in water, it will drown. And die.)

Then again, you've got details like nutrition supplements and ambient temperature to think about. There are mineral and vitamin supplements you can add to your turtle's diet about once a week or so but how much is right for your pet?

What kind of turtle needs what kind of supplement? It is generally advisable to put a calcium block in the turtle's dry habitat for them to snack on occasionally. That helps to ensure good shell health, as do daily doses of unfiltered, natural sunlight.

In any case, a turtle care sheet that you create and keep updating regularly as you learn more about your turtle can make all the difference. If you are away on a trip, for instance, or your turtle out-lives you (some grow to be a hundred years old!), then the care sheet will ensure that your pet continues to be cared for in the best possible way.

Liked this article? Read more at: Turtle and Terrapin Care Sheets Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Bryan

Pet Turtle Care : Common Pet Turtles

Pet Turtle Care

When it comes to pet turtles it may seem they are all pretty much the same thing. In fact, turtles are quite differentiated and each breed and type of pet turtle has its own unique features, habits and requirements. Some of the most distinctive differences across types are the colors and markings on their shells.

Land based turtles have different kinds of shells than do sea turtles or water based turtles like terrapins. Water based turtles tend to have lighter color shells, less distinctive markings and softer shells as well than the land based turtles.

The most popular pet turtles include the box turtle and the slider turtle varieties. The most common breeds of turtles, such as the yellow bellied turtles, slider turtles, mud turtles and box turtles, all have distinctive colorings and markings and an average life expectancy of about fifty years.

Some have a little bit less or more, but a fair number have been known to outlive their owners. This is, therefore, something to be considered when looking for a turtle pet. You have to be willing to commit to providing for your pet turtle for a long time.

Box turtles are one of the most common types of turtles and are commonly known for their dome shaped shells. They can live on a diet of fresh vegetables like fresh leafy greens but also enjoy other foods like snails, insects, fungi, berries, slugs, roots, worms and flowers.

During certain times of the season males will contend for the affections of a single female so if you're planning to own more than one pet turtle of differing genders you will have to think about that.

Mud turtles are a common breed of aquatic turtles and there are certain species of mud turtles that are normally kept as household pets. These require, similarly to the red-eared slider and the painted turtle, both a wet environment and dry environment to live in.

Other common types of pet turtles include the yellow bellied turtles which also have a long life expectancy and thrive on fresh leafy greens as a major part of their diet.

Regardless of what kind of turtle you get as a pet, you will need to provide for fresh food and water as well a comfortable, climate-controlled environment for them.

Liked this article? Read more at: Common Pet Turtles Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Bryan

Pet Turtle Care : How to Create Pet Turtle Habitats at Home

Pet Turtle Care

Turtles are just like any other pet animal; they will warrant a certain degree of commitment for an individual to be able to effectively take care of them. And just like other pets, it's important to set up proper pet turtle habitats before you go about acquiring your first turtles to take care of. Designing a place for your turtles to live in is not as simple as you may think it is. For the most part, you will need to create a space that is pretty much like the natural pet turtle habitats that the reptile thrives in.

Species differences Before you go about designing and setting up your pet turtle habitats, it's important to note that different species will require different environments. For instance, there are certain turtles that can live in fresh water and there are those that require some sort of muddy environment. Pet turtle habitats tend to vary and the idea is to consider specific space requirements as well as the area of your home that you have allotted for your pet.

For some enthusiasts, it's better to run a research first on your options and consider your own living space before acquiring a specific type of turtle. It's better if you get a pet that will easily adjust with the type of home that you have. For instance, if you don't have a lot of backyard space, you will logically have to set up pet turtle habitats indoors. This will mean getting turtles that will do just fine without much sunlight. Accessories While the best place to keep pet turtle habitats is still outdoors where they can get enough warmth from the sun and conveniently hibernate during the winter season, some people opt to keep their pets indoors for a lot of reasons. This is perfectly fine so long as you make sure that the pet turtle habitats come equipped with such accessories as UV lamps that can provide the same heat that the sun offers.

Since turtles normally live on both land and water, it's important that the tank of your pet turtle habitats come with a dry space where your pets can easily take a break from being in the water for too long. You will also need to install filters that should be regularly cleaned to keep your pets from developing fungus on their shells which can be difficult to treat. A slanted design for the tank is common among pet turtle habitats and you can easily buy these enclosures in specialized pet stores. Alternatively, you can also have the tank custom-made although this will probably cost more. Serious turtle lovers usually have pet turtle habitats specifically designed to suit their needs. For beginners, you can probably start with a smaller tank and work your way up as you go along. Keeping it natural You will want to keep your pet turtle habitats as natural-looking as possible so that it doesn't take much for your pet to adjust to the new home.

For great turtle care advice, turtle food recommendation or turtle health issues visit us at... http://www.petturtlecare.net/

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Pet Turtle Care : The Differences Between Pet Turtles and Sea Turtles

Pet Turtle Care

Have you always been interested in knowing more about having a pet turtle, or wondered what the difference between an average pet turtle and a sea turtle is?

Sea turtles are found in the ocean and there are actually seven different kinds of them. These are:

Flatback
Green
Hawksbill
Kemp's Ridley
Leatherback
Loggerhead
Olive Ridley

Sea turtles are known to have a life expectancy of up to a hundred years, which is longer than that of most other species of turtle. Because sea turtles have been hunted by humans all over the globe, many of them are now an 'endangered species'; a special breed of animal protected by law to live freely in the oceans.

Pet turtles can include certain varieties of semi-aquatic or even freshwater turtles but generally the most common pets are those that live in a mixed environment. Some of the most common breeds of pet turtles include the red-eared slider, the box turtle and the Russian tortoise.

Each of these breeds requires different habitats and care, and each requires their own specific diet and environmental needs. When deciding what kind of pet turtle would be the ideal choice for you, you should research the different kinds and figure out which one best matches the kind of care and the type of conditions that you are willing to provide for it.

Most pet turtle diet consists of fresh fruit and vegetables or just fresh vegetables. Whichever type of pet turtle you choose, you should be aware that they have a long life expectancy and will require a lot of care from you.

Although pet turtles do not need to be trained like other pets that you may have, they do require the right surroundings, plenty of fresh water and a lot of attention to them - to make sure that you detect any changes in their behavior or appearance which can help to catch certain diseases and illnesses early on.

To find out more about keeping pet turtles please visit: Pet Turtles

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Pet Turtle Care : Providing the Perfect Turtle and Terrapin Care

Pet Turtle Care

When it comes to caring for your pet turtle or pet terrapin there are a few basic things that you should know in order to make sure that you are providing your pet with the most quality care and to ensure that you will have your pet turtle or pet terrapin around to lead a happy and healthy life with you.

First, you should know all about the exact type and breed of the pet turtle that you have. Keeping turtles in your home requires special attention to dietary and living needs that are dependent on the breed of the turtle or terrapin.

Turtle care involves knowing whether your pet turtle or terrapin is a boy or a girl and if they prefer to live together in groups or alone. Some kinds of pet turtles prefer to live in groups of similar turtles, but usually they all should be about the same size and it is generally not a good idea to have some larger ones and some smaller ones.

One of the best ways to detect the sex of your pet turtle early on before they reach sexual maturity is by the length of the claws. Males tend to have much longer claws than females and it is typically noticeable.

Another basic care necessity of pet turtles and terrapins is diet. Most turtles prefer and need a variety of fresh foods that include dark, leafy greens. There are certain kinds of pet turtles that do prefer to eat worms, snails and other greens as well. All turtles need to have enough vitamins and minerals in order to retain health and these can be found in supplements that can be added to their diet and regular feedings once or twice a week.

You may also want to make sure that your pet turtle gets enough calcium in their diet so you can add a calcium block in your turtle's habitat for it to snack on.

You also need to provide the right kind of environment for your pet turtle, which can include providing both a dry habitat and a wet habitat if you have any kind of semi-aquatic turtle. The right temperature and lighting is also very important to the well being and health of your turtle. Keep the habitats of your pet turtles very clean and make sure that you are giving your pet turtles enough attention.

If you would like to know more about providing better care for your turtle please visit: Providing Perfect Turtle Care

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Pet Turtle Care : Naming a Pet Turtle

Pet Turtle Car

If you are looking for a name for your pet turtle then select the name that suits it most. This means, the meaning of the name should be appropriate for the nature, behavior and character of your adored turtle.

Pets are normally considered as children. As the naming of your child is important, it's equally important to name your pet turtle. When you give a name to your turtle it shows your concern and attachment towards it. A special name gives it a special identity and makes it a part of your family. Your pet turtle's unique feature reflects in its unique name. So, the name should distinguish it from other turtles. You must give it a unique, caring and lovely name.

The names of the turtles are divided according to their gender. Some names are for male turtles while some are most suitable for female turtles. However, there are some other names too, which are neutral i.e. common name for both male and female turtle. If you are interested in unusual names, you can go for the foreign names, e.g., African name.

As there are many stories on turtle playing different characters around the globe, you can choose your pet turtle's name from these popular turtle characters. Here are a few famous turtle characters:

1. Cecil: It's a famous story of race between turtle and bugs.
2. Touché: It's a famous story screened in 1962 as New Hanna Barbera Show.
3. Tooter: It's a story of a turtle happening in the prehistoric times to the moon.
4. Yertle: It's a story of a turtle king.
5. Churchy Femme: It's all about a character of Pogo comic strip of 1940's.
6. Aford: it's a main character of a famous comic strip.
7. Filburt: It's a part of cartoon "Rocko's Modern Life".

You can also select from these beautiful names:

1. Theophila (Loved by God)
2. Tamiko (A Princess)
3. Amandine (Latin-She must be loved)
4. Vania (God's Gracious Gift)
5. Treadway (male name-Strong Warrior)
6. Ajani (Victorious)
7. Nafisa (It has no meaning but it's the most popular African name)
8. Amiri (Prince)
9. Jaida (Female name-The gemstone Jade)
10. Cyre (Female name-Moon)
11. Mona (female- gathered from the seed of jimson weed)
12. Nadine (Russian-Hope)
13. Temira (Hebrew-Tall)
14. Coy (English-quiet person)
15. Charmelina (Mystery & magic)
16. Vinaashak (Destroyer)
17. Tahoma (Cute personality)
18. Egesa (Male name-Terror)
19. Yammish (Female-Proper)
20. Kyra (Greek-Enthroned)

Also, you can find from a plethora of turtle pet names:

· Googles
· Pluto
· Pogo
· Fuogo
· Terri
· Muchies
· Ozzy
· Atrus
· Razzle
· Pixy
· Sheldon
· Chiriko
· Crush
· Turby
· Rupal
· Armon
· Opa
· Spa
· Turddy
· Shelly
· Murtle
· Terkeles

For more turtle name suggestions please visit: Naming a Turtle.

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