An Introduction to the Fine Art of Caring for Baby Turtles
Like any newborn animal, newborn turtles are delicate creatures. That is why there are certain things that their owners must take note of when caring for baby turtles.
Baby turtles should be placed in an enclosure wherein there is both a place for them to bask and an area with shallow water. The width of the baby turtle’s shell gives an acceptable approximation of how shallow the water in the tank should be. This allows the baby turtle to easily reach the water’s surface.

Caring for Baby Turtles

It’s possible for a young turtle to drown if there is no easily accessible dry area for it to reach. That is why the basking area must be placed in such a way that the turtle can reach it without difficulty. It is also recommended that the tank have an attached full-spectrum light. This not only allows the tank to be well lighted but it is also said to help harden the shells of newborn turtles.
Another important detail in caring for baby turtles is keeping the water in the tank clean and warm. Owners may opt to use a filter, in which case they only need to change the water every two to three days. However, filters are capable of creating a current, which can present a problem for the turtles. There are two possible solutions to this predicament. One is to use rocks to break the current. The other option is to tilt the tank in such a way that the water is deeper in the area of the filter and shallower near the basking area. If the owner does not have a filter, it is advised that he or she change the water daily.

Caring for Baby Turtles

To keep the water warm, one can make use of a heater. If the tank does not contain much water, a heating pad placed under the tank is another option. If an incandescent lamp is used to heat the basking area, it may be enough to keep the water warm as well. Do not make the temperature too hot, though, as baby water turtles are said to be prone to overheating.
Caring for baby turtles also include feeding them the appropriate food. Some species of turtles may be picky eaters in the beginning but eventually, their appetites will increase. Food choices for turtles include mealworms, crickets and even earthworms. Commercially, turtle foods available include turtle sticks, flakes, and pellet food. Some of these foods can be expensive, however, so some owners combine the turtle food with other food items such as fish food and vegetables.

Caring for Baby Turtles

The food should be given in tiny quantities and in tiny pieces. This is because too much food generally contributes to a faster growth rate, which in turn causes their shells to grow deformed.
Another important thing to consider when caring for baby turtles is the state of their health. Signs of a sick or poorly nourished turtle include lethargy, milky eyes, and cloudy patches on their skin. Turtle owners must therefore make sure that their tank is kept clean and their pet properly nourished, in order to keep their pet healthy. It doesn’t hurt to ask a veterinarian for help in caring for baby turtles, either.

Tags: Caring for Baby Turtles