How to Get Yellow Bellied Slider Hatchlings to Eat Pellets

Yellow bellied slider turtles are native to the United States. These turtles' dietary needs include protein and vegetable matter on a daily basis to maintain their health. Yellow bellied slider turtle hatchlings, like infants of other species, have developing mouths and digestive systems that can't handle tough or hard foods at the beginning of life. When feeding pellets to yellow bellied slider hatchlings, first soften them in a pure source of water.

Things You'll Need

  • Standard turtle chow for hatchlings or koi pellets
  • Chlorine-free water, preferably spring water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill a clean bowl with about 1 pint of clean spring water. If you are using tap water, fill the bowl and allow the water to sit out uncovered overnight so the chlorine gas disperses from the water into the air.

    • 2

      Drop four to six turtle chow pellets or koi pellets into the bowl of water. Allow the pellets to soak until they are expanded and soft.

    • 3

      Set the yellow bellied slider hatchling in the bowl of water and allow the turtle to dine on the freshly prepared meal. Remove the turtle from the feeding bowl as soon as possible after it has finished eating and return the hatchling to its normal living quarters.