How to Raise Baby Red-Eared Slider Turtles

Baby turtles are often thought of as great pets for small children. Red-eared sliders are usually the popular choice, as they are the most common of all domesticated turtles. However, the younger the turtle, the less chance it has for survival. Because of this, you must be careful and precise in raising a baby turtle. Learn exactly what it needs so you can raise one to grow into a healthy adult turtle that has a long life.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium
  • Water
  • Baby turtle food
  • Heat lamp
  • Soil
  • Stones
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Instructions

    • 1

      Select an aquarium for your baby red-eared slider turtles to live in. Set the aquarium near a window so your baby turtles can get plenty of natural sunlight.

    • 2

      Place a thin layer of soil at the bottom of the aquarium so your baby turtles can dig or hide. Place some stones throughout the tank so that your baby turtles can climb on them to receive air and sunlight.

    • 3

      Add a small amount of water to the aquarium. The amount of water that you add should not exceed the height of your baby turtle's shell. Since this amount of water is too shallow for most aquarium pumps to clean, you must to change the water often as baby turtles require a clean environment to maintain good health.

    • 4

      Obtain a heat lamp and place it over the aquarium. Turtles are cold-blooded and need the heat from the lamp to maintain their health.

    • 5

      Ensure your baby turtles get food every day. Buy pellets or flakes specifically made for baby turtles. Small amounts of lettuce is also good for your baby turtles. Feed your turtles once a day.