Care of African Mud Turtles

With proper care, the African mud turtle can live to about 50 years. A small turtle, when fully grown it measures approximately 10 to 12 inches across. The female usually grows slightly larger than the male. The turtle has a naturally inquisitive nature but it can also be aggressive. It also exudes an unpleasant odor if frightened or startled. With consistent care and handling, the turtle will often become quite tame. Captive hatched specimens usually become exceedingly docile over time.

Things You'll Need

  • Tank
  • Sand and gravel
  • Under-gravel filter
  • Normal canister filter
  • Thermostatically controlled water heater
  • Reptile UV light
  • Plants
  • Food
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Instructions

    • 1

      House one to two adult turtles in a tank that measures a minimum 4 to 5 feet in length. Consider using a 75- to 100-gallon aquarium.

    • 2

      Create two land areas in the tank out of a sand and soil substrate. The turtle will use one area to bask in. Female turtles should always have an area of substrate that measures approximately 12 inches in diameter to dig in and lay eggs. The female African mud turtle will lay eggs even if a male is not available to fertilize them.

    • 3

      Provide an area in the tank with water at a depth of at least 5 inches. Use an under-gravel filter and a normal canister filter to keep the water clean. Place a thermostatically controlled water heater into the water. Keep the water's temperature at 78 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • 4

      Hang a reptile UV light 12 inches above the turtle's basking area. Keep the light on for 12 hours per day. Turn the light off during the night to help simulate the night/day cycle. Maintain the temperature at 82 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit for the turtle.

    • 5

      Place live or plastic aquatic plants into the tank for the turtles to enjoy. Consider piling rocks in the tank or placing pieces of wood in the tank for the turtles to lounge on.

    • 6

      Feed the turtle a varied diet that contains diced chicken, turkey, earthworms, pinkie mice, prawns, watercress, crickets and lettuce. Give the turtle diced fruit every few days as a treat.