Question: “How to feed a red-eared tortoise at home?” - sooner or later confronts any owner of these little green pets. It is very important that the pet receives food not only of sufficient volume, but also of quality. Before proceeding directly to the issue of diet, we consider the physiological characteristics of this type of reptile. The nutrition menu of the red-eared turtles largely depends on their age. In the diet of turtles, live food predominates, however, growing up, the reptile begins to give preference to food of plant origin.
How to feed a small red-eared turtle?
As mentioned above, small turtles are predators by nature, so even if your little pets absorb granular feed with great pleasure, live bait will be a useful addition. As live food, bloodworms, caterpillars,
earthworms, freshwater or land snails can be used. Also, do not forget that the diet must be properly balanced, that is, contain a number of essential elements: fiber, protein, including animal origin. Do not forget about the balance of calcium and phosphorus. Often, young aquarists are content with a superficial answer to the question
"how to feed the red-eared turtle." At home, however, it is not always possible to properly organize the process of eating turtles. Be careful when feeding reptiles in an aquarium, as this approach requires frequent water changes. It is better to organize a separate place or to teach turtles to eat exclusively on the islet of the terrarium.
How to feed a red-eared turtle at home?
With the tortoise reaching adolescence, it is very important that, in addition to protein, the reptile receives in sufficient quantities the calcium necessary for its growth. For these purposes, complementary feeding by small fish (preferably the perch family) or snails is ideal, and special resettlement of fish and snails in the aquarium is also possible. What can feed the red-eared turtle so as not to introduce vitamins into its lure? It is enough to give reptiles a little veal or chicken liver at least once a week.
How to feed the red-eared turtle at home when it has reached puberty?
Adult eared turtles, although omnivorous, are more likely to eat plant food. However, one should not forget that food suitable for humans can be harmful to the red-eared tortoise. Products such as potatoes, bread, cereals, milk, cottage cheese and fried meat are strictly forbidden to give her. Allowed to eat lean fish, insects, shrimp, squid and raw meat in moderation. Turtles can be given a little cabbage, asparagus, rhubarb, thyme, spinach, basil, radish, turnip, celery, wild cruciferous. In addition, you can buy special food and fortified supplements or plant special vegetable feed directly into the terrarium for turtles.