Have you recently adopted a turtle? These charming reptiles often arouse attraction thanks to their unique appearance and fascinating lifestyle. That you have in your hands a land turtle, a aquatic turtle or a baby turtle, it is essential to know the diet of your new shelled friend. Turtles have specific nutritional needs, linked to their species and their environment. So, what are the essential foods to include in your turtle’s diet? This is what we are going to discover together.
The diet of terrestrial turtles
Welcoming a land turtle, like the Hermann turtle, requires knowing your needs in terms of food. Indeed, the diet of these animals differs from that of other turtles.
The diet of tortoises is primarily herbivorous, although some may occasionally eat small insects. Leaves, plants, vegetables and fruits therefore represent the basis of their diet. Land turtles, for example, love green beans or radish leaves. They also enjoy fruits, but these should be given in moderation due to their high sugar content.
Tortoises also need calcium for their shell. To do this, you can give them cuttlefish bones, which are easy to find in pet stores.
Finally, specific pellets for tortoises can supplement their diet. These products, available commercially as well as from Zoo Med, are enriched with vitamins and minerals essential for the health of your turtle.
Feeding aquatic turtles
Conversely, aquatic turtles, like sea turtles, red ears, have a more omnivorous diet. They can eat both foods of origin plant and animal.
For the plant-based part of their diet, aquatic turtles enjoy aquatic plants, vegetables such as zucchini, peppers or green beans, as well as fruits in small quantities. They may also eat certain types of fish, worms or insects. Be careful, however, not to give them raw meat, which could contain parasites.
Just like tortoises, aquatic turtles need calcium. You can give them cuttlebones, or add calcium supplements to their water.
Finally, you can give your aquatic turtles specific pellets. These foods, available in pet stores, are specially designed to meet their nutritional needs.
The price of turtle food
When it comes to feeding your turtle, whether terrestrial or aquatic, it is important to consider the food price. In fact, certain foods can quickly add up to the bill.
Fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as specific pellets, can represent some cost. However, it is essential not to ignore these foods, which provide your turtle with the nutrients it needs.
Additionally, you can find specific seeds for turtles at pet stores. Their price varies depending on the brand and type of seeds. It is recommended to vary food sources to ensure a balanced nutritional intake for your turtle.
Conclusion: Make your turtle’s well-being a priority
In conclusion, feeding a turtle is not that complicated, but requires knowledge and attention. Whether your turtle is aquatic or terrestrial, it needs a diverse and balanced diet to stay healthy. Whether vegetables, fruits, pellets or calcium supplements, each food has its importance in your turtle’s diet.
Remember that the well-being of your turtle also requires a healthy lifestyle: a suitable habitat, good temperature and humidity conditions, and regular visits to the veterinarian to ensure its good health.
Feeding a turtle can be expensive, but the pleasure of seeing your turtle healthy and thriving is priceless. So, are you ready to make your turtle’s diet a priority?
*Updated 20 July 2024
