Turtles and tortoises are the most beloved of all reptiles, bringing a smile even to folks who shudder at the mere mention of the word “snake”. Often considered as more of a family member than pet, they exhibit traits that seem absent in other reptiles. Most become very responsive, with aquatic species paddling about wildly when people enter the room and hungry tortoises following their owners and even bumping them if meals are slow in coming.
It is, however, important to do your research, as inexpensive hatchlings are still promoted as “simple” pets by unscrupulous sellers. Many, including the popular Red-Eared Slider and Sulcata Tortoise, become too large for typical homes, while others, such as the Common Snapping Turtle, are both large and dangerous. Also, all turtles and tortoises are very demanding in terms of their diet and other needs, and small mistakes often lead to serious health problems. But with proper care, a well-chosen hard-shelled pet can provide you with a lifetime of wonder and companionship. Take some time to explore the turtles and tortoises that fascinate you.
Turtles and tortoises are the most beloved of all reptiles, bringing a smile even to folks who shudder at the mere mention of the word “snake”. Often considered as more of a family member than pet, they exhibit traits that seem absent in other reptiles. Most become very responsive, with aquatic species paddling about wildly when people enter the room and hungry tortoises following their owners and even bumping them if meals are slow in coming.
It is, however, important to do your research, as inexpensive hatchlings are still promoted as “simple” pets by unscrupulous sellers. Many, including the popular Red-Eared Slider and Sulcata Tortoise, become too large for typical homes, while others, such as the Common Snapping Turtle, are both large and dangerous. Also, all turtles and tortoises are very demanding in terms of their diet and other needs, and small mistakes often lead to serious health problems. But with proper care, a well-chosen hard-shelled pet can provide you with a lifetime of wonder and companionship. Take some time to explore the turtles and tortoises that fascinate you.
Midland Painted Turtle
1273 days ago
Eastern Painted Turtle
1278 days ago
Red-eared Slider
1304 days ago
Common Snapping Turtle
1321 days ago
Sulcata Tortoise
1321 days ago
Eastern Box Turtle
1435 days ago
Sulcata Tortoise
1438 days ago
Red-eared Slider
1588 days ago
Hispaniolan Slider
1681 days ago
Leopard Tortoise
1731 days ago




"They keep great in the freezer and the turtles bite chunks out of the cubes as they thaw."
Posted on Thursday, August 30, 2018 valsup about her Red-eared Slider