How to Buy a Turtle Terrarium

Land turtles can be kept in outdoor enclosed turtle pens or indoor terrariums. Keeping turtles outside increases their longevity. If you're going to keep your turtle in an indoor terrarium, remember that the terrarium must be kept meticulously clean to avoid disease.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Full-spectrum Fluorescent Lamp
• Terrarium
• Terrarium Bedding
• Terrarium Heater
• Terrarium Humidifier
• Terrarium Lid Cover

1. Choose a terrarium that's at least five times the length and five times the width of your turtle. Generally this means it's at least 5 square feet.

2. Keep your pet safe with a secure lid.

3. Light up the terrarium with an attached full-spectrum fluorescent lamp.

4. Be sure the terrarium provides a large basking area and easy access to the water basin.

5. Look for a terrarium that has at least two sides made of glass or Plexiglas. Some turtle experts recommend Plexiglas because glass produces a glare.

6. Confirm that the terrarium is easy to mist. You'll have to add humidity to the terrarium every day.

7. Opt for a terrarium that has an undertank heater.

8. Choose a terrarium that's easy to clean. A detachable bottom makes it easier to clean the tank's floor.

Tips & Warnings

• Use potting soil or specially manufactured turtle bedding for the floor of your turtle terrarium. Don't use corncob bedding or wood shavings.
• Because turtles can carry the salmonella bacteria, always wash your hands after handling your turtle, her terrarium or her bedding.

on 11/22/2005 Never forget the the UV lamp.

on 11/22/2005 As I clean my tortoise's tank, I place him in the tub. Then I use a soft-bristle toothbrush and scrub his little legs and shell. Jackson loves it, and he looks great all cleaned up!

on 11/22/2005 First we fill up the sink with a little bit warmer than lukewarm water, then we put him in it and while he bathes, we clean his terrarium and give him fresh food and fresh water so he is clean and so is his little house.