Facts About Baby Turtles

Baby turtles, especially as pets, can have a reputation for snapping; however, most are not aggressive to people. They're usually housed in aquariums with smooth rocks serving as a "land" area, taking up at least one-third of the aquarium, while the remaining two-thirds of the space are for swimming. They spend their entire life in the aquarium to prevent harmful bacteria germs spreading to family members.

  1. Types

    • The most common type of baby turtle, the red eared slider, receives its name from the red streak on the sides of its head. The box turtle, which is so-named because they're able to close all appendages, including the head inside their shell, is known for being a picky eater. The Russian Tortoise, although shier than other turtles, has a pleasant disposition. The shell is typically ruddy brown or black.

    Food

    • Various commercial turtle foods include pelleted foods and flakes, turtle sticks and floating pellets. Cooked poultry and eggs (including shells) are also acceptable for baby turtles. Although whole dried shrimp isn't safe, and especially harmful for babies, shrimp pellets are safe foods on occasion.

    Health Problems

    • Salmonellosis (salmonella ) and soft shell are two of the most common diseases affecting baby turtles. However, keeping a baby turtle's aquarium and drinking-water clean prevents the threat of salmonellosis. Soft shell, which is caused by a lack of vitamin D3 and sunlight, is a calcium shortage. Because the main symptom is a soft shell it's harder to diagnose in baby turtles as their shells tend to be already soft. However, a discolored shell that turns to a bleached color is another sign.

    Considerations

    • An ideal baby turtle's home grows in size, right along with the developing turtle. Also, the water and air of the aquarium are kept a temperature that isn't too cold for swimming. This allows the animals the freedom to swim comfortably and bask in warmth.

    Warning

    • Not only is salmonellosis a health problem for turtles, but harmful bacteria from the disease can be transferred to humans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, roughly 70,000 Americans contract salmonellosis each year from reptile contact. The bacteria from salmonellosis can cause symptoms including fever, diarrhea and stomach pain that start one to three days after an infestation.