A turtle is a wonderful pet to have, but like all exotic creatures they have specific needs and basic needs that must be met to keep them happy and healthy.
If properly cared for, a turtle can have a very long life, with many living over 100 years. Because of this, before taking one of these adorable pets into your home, you should consider that it will most likely be a lifelong commitment, and they may outlive you!
When deciding whether or not a turtle is right for you, you need to think about where it lives, what conditions it needs, and how much time and attention you need to give it.
What essentials do I need?
Begin by collecting all of the equipment that you will need for looking after a tortoise. If you are starting to build the perfect care kit for a tortoise or terrapin, we'd recommend the following:
- Viv exotic Viva Tortoise Table - 90cm x 45cm x 21.5cm.
- Exo Terra Reptile Feeding Dish.
- Habitat Hamp Substrate.
- Exo Terra Dial Thermometer.
- Exo Terra Glow Light & Reflector.
- Exo Terra Mercury Vapor Solar Glo Lamp.
- Exo Terra Heat Mat.
How do I shelter a turtle?
The right turtle home is essential and sadly most turtles will not thrive in a classic vivarium style enclosure. Fortunately, we offer a number of habitats more than suitable for tortoises and terrapins.
Unlike standard reptile vivarium's, the Viv exotic Viva Tortoise Table is designed specifically for tortoises and has a removable tray, play station and stand. The base of the pen has a metal skirt that prevents your turtle from climbing up and falling on his back. The top of the pen has a table area where you can mount light and heat lamps and the base tray is removable so you can use this pen outdoors and place it directly on the grass.
What conditions should the turtle have?
As much as possible you should try to imitate the natural environment in which your turtle lived. Also keep in mind that too much moisture in the turtle's shell can encourage fungal growth, which can be detrimental to their health. You should include a basking area in the enclosure as well as shade so your turtle can move around and regulate their body temperature as needed.
Ideally, the optimum temperature in the turtle enclosure should be between 21-32 degrees Celsius. Exo Terra is known for making quality heating and lighting products, especially for exotic pets. Both the lamps and thermometer in your starter kit will allow you to monitor and provide the right heat and light for your turtle. A heat mat will provide the gentle warmth that your turtle likes to sit on.
What do I need to feed my turtle?
Our range of feeding bowls have a natural effect, are easy to clean and non-porous. They are designed to blend in with the surroundings, making your turtle feel like it is foraging in the wild. Make sure your turtle always has shallow water to drink and soak in.
The main part of your turtle's diet consists of fresh vegetables such as green leafy vegetables such as dandelions. They will need protein from small live insects such as mealworms or grubs, and fruit may also make up a small percentage of their diet. Calcium is especially important for a turtle, so be sure to add a supplement to their diet twice a week.
Once you have your turtle box ready, you can look forward to a long and happy companionship. Browse our website today for many more products to help ensure your tortoise lives a long and happy life.
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