Traffles are one of the most common species of these reptiles. They are freshwater. The appearance of these turtles is very interesting: red spots on the head, an intricate drawing of the shell. The owners who brought such a pet always have a question about what they feed the red-eared turtles at home.
Rubella turtles
These are medium-sized turtles, their shell grows up to 30 cm. Moreover, males are smaller than females. This type of turtles got its name because of the elongated red spots that are located near the eyes. In some subspecies, these spots are not red, but orange or yellow. As additional ornaments, these turtles carry green wavy stripes and spots on the head, legs, body. In nature, such a turtle is widespread enough. It can be found in Central and South America, Europe, Africa, Australia. By the way, it was introduced to Australia, but it has spread so much that it is now recognized as a pest that crowds out local species of fauna.
How to feed red-eared turtles
Of course, the well-being of any animal largely depends on feeding. In the care of the turtle, nutrition is also a very important factor. These turtles are predators, and therefore, animal feed should prevail in their diet, the content of which should be at least 80 - 90%. The rest is plant feed. Since in nature these reptiles most often feed on small fish, then they are advised to include low-fat fish, cut into small pieces, at home in their diet. When asked what is the feeding of red-eared turtles at home most often, it turns out that preference is given to prepared foods. However, experts advise diversifying the diet of animals. It must include slices of low-fat cooked meat (for example, chicken), about once a week they should be given a boiled liver. Also, turtles will refuse from frogs, bugs, worms, small snails. Such food can be purchased in specialized stores. From plant foods, lettuce, cabbage, seaweed, green grass are recommended. But not all turtles eat it all. What is feeding the red-eared turtles at home to satisfy their need for plant foods? You should try giving your pets different types of vegetables and herbs to determine what they like best. Some people prefer apples. But keep in mind that acidic varieties can damage turtles, especially if the animal eats them in large quantities. And you should definitely diversify the diet. Firstly, in order for the turtles to satisfy the needs of their body in different substances, and secondly, they are simply fed up with uniform food.
Some features
When feeding turtles, experts advise taking into account some features. You should not feed them with it, because they will get used to it very quickly and stop eating in any other way. And besides, you don’t always want to pick up what they feed the red-eared turtles at home. You can’t categorically offer yogurts, eggs, bread, cheese, cereals to such pets. Their digestive system is simply not adapted to the absorption of such food. Another important question: how often to feed the red-eared turtles? Usually it is recommended to feed young turtles 1 time per day, and more adults (2 - 3 years) less often, 3-4 times a week. However, if the turtles persistently require food, they should not be starved. Food is best served at the same time, preferably in the morning.
If you follow some simple rules in feeding the red-eared turtles and carefully treat your pets, they will please the owners with a healthy look and a long life.