How to Care for a Long Neck Turtle

The Eastern long-necked turtle (Chelodina longicollis) originally hails from eastern Australia. They are often sold as pets when they are very small (about 3 cm), but they can grow as large as 30 cm (shell length). Turtles, like many reptiles, require a solid commitment, because they can live up to 100 years, require a very specific living environment and do not do well under excessive stress.

Things You'll Need

  • Long-necked turtle
  • Aquarium or pond
  • Filtration system
  • Lighting and heating system
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Instructions

    • 1

      Decide what housing requirements best suit your turtle. A long-necked turtle is not considered old enough to live outside until it is 3 years old. Housing indoors requires a 3- to 4-foot aquarium, assuming you will house the turtle outside when it is old enough. The water level of the aquarium must be more than the width of the turtle's shell, deeper if possible. The turtle also will need a basking area.

    • 2

      Make the switch to outdoor housing. When the long-necked turtle is 3 years old, it is best for it to live outside. Provide an enclosed plant-endowed, non-abrasive pond of suitable depth that's easy to enter and exit. Like the aquarium, the pond should have a basking area.

    • 3

      Test the water quality weekly with a pH kit. It should be between 7.5 and 8.2 (on the high end of the scale is best), and maintain it with a filtration system. Turtles are prone to skin and throat infections when their water quality is poor.

    • 4

      Purchase a heat light and a water heater. The light should be kept out of the turtle's reach and should be left on always. A red or blue light usually works best. Water temperature should be kept between 16 and 20 degrees Celsius.

    • 5

      Follow proper feeding guidelines. Long-necked turtles are carnivorous. Variety is important, food must be warm, and this species tends to prefer to eat in the water. Feed your turtle five to 10 bite-sized pieces twice a week. Feeding too frequently will cause the turtle to grow too fast and may result in shell deformities.

    • 6

      Make sure the pond is adequate for hibernation. There must be 60 cm of water in the pond, as well as plenty of plants and soil. The turtle will choose the place it wishes to hibernate. Most will choose to hibernate in the water. Outdoor turtles may be brought indoors instead of hibernating.