People sometimes make the assumption that all turtles are the same but the truth is that every turtle is different in character and depending on species has unique features, habits and requirements. Some of the differences are visibly clear such as the colors and shell markings. Tortoises have noticeably different shells from sea turtles and turtles that are based mostly in water. The shells of a water based turtle will be lighter in color, softer and have less markings than that of a land turtle or tortoise.
The most popular pet turtles include the box turtle and the slider turtle varieties. The most common breeds of turtles, such as the yellow bellied turtles, slider turtles, mud turtles and box turtles, all have distinctive colorings and markings and an average life expectancy of about fifty years. Some have a little bit less or more, but a fair number have been known to outlive their owners. This is, therefore, something to be considered when looking for a turtle pet. You have to be willing to commit to providing for your pet turtle for a long time.
Box turtles are one of the most common types of turtles and are commonly known for their dome shaped shells. They can live on a diet of fresh vegetables like fresh leafy greens but also enjoy other foods like snails, insects, fungi, berries, slugs, roots, worms and flowers. During certain times of the season males will contend for the affections of a single female so if you’re planning to own more than one pet turtle of differing genders you will have to think about that. If you own this species you will have to give it special box turtle care as they require a different kind of care to some of their cousins.
Mud turtles are a common breed of aquatic turtles and there are certain species of mud turtles that are normally kept as household pets. These require, similarly to the red-eared slider and the painted turtle, both a wet environment and dry environment to live in. Other common types of pet turtles include the yellow bellied turtles which also have a long life expectancy and thrive on fresh leafy greens as a major part of their diet.
Regardless of what kind of turtle you get as a pet, you will need to provide for fresh food and water as well a comfortable, climate-controlled environment for them.
