Pet Turtles: Why and How

Pet turtles are always a favourite with young kids, and it's easy to see why. They are cute, generally safe to handle and look about as harmless as a reptile can. Of course, the shell gets special attention: what other animals carry their own hidey-hole with them?

Whether it's the ever-smiling and slightly manic diamondback terrapin, the common but amazingly decorative red-eared slider, or any one of the dozens of species available these creatures can bring years of pleasure and give your child important hands-on experience growing and looking after it.

Different species of turtles have different needs. If you want to keep a healthy happy turtle, you'll need to prepare thoroughly. There's more to turtle care than slapping it in a fish tank with a few rocks thrown in to sit on.

Consider the following:

* How big will it grow? Will I need to change the tank when it gets bigger?
* What does it eat?
* How often will I need to clean the tank?
* What do I need to set up a turtle aquarium?
* How should I set up the tank so the turtle is happy?
* Will I know if it becomes sick, and what should I do?
* Will it require special UVB lighting?

With these questions in mind, let's have a look at the turtles commonly and legally available.

The Beautiful Red Eared Slider Turtle

The strikingly patterned red eared slider is the most commonly kept turtle. Unfortunately many slider turtles are dumped because owners are not properly prepared to look after this long lived family addition. Find out how to care for your little red-eared buddy.