How to Feed Map Turtles
As semi-aquatic reptiles, map turtles require water and dry land in their habitat. Their marked preference for the water is a good indication of their natural diet. The species' jaws are designed to crush the snails, shellfish and insects that make up the bulk of its meals. The turtles also consume some vegetation and chew on carrion bones and aquatic bird eggshells for calcium.
In captivity, the diet needs to reflect this natural diversity. Foods can be divided into live, plant and manufactured varieties, and supplements may be required to maintain health.
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Instructions
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Select a variety of foods. Quality prepared foods--TurtlePuddle.org recommends Tetra's Reptomin or Wardley's Reptile T.E.N.--should make up the bulk of the diet, but be sure to offer protein in the form of snails, crickets, earthworms, meal worms or live fish. Leafy greens and carrots are also necessary, and you may want to research what nutrition each provide, as some can be valuable sources of calcium. Live or freeze-dried shrimp may be offered in lieu of crayfish.
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Offer manufactured turtle food daily to juveniles, every other day to adults, in the amount directed by the label. This should be given in a safe, easily accessible container such as a shallow bowl to minimize mess.
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Offer vegetation at each feeding, or on days you do not feed the manufactured food. Make sure to wash the food thoroughly to clean off any residual chemicals used in growing it. Organic may be the safest option in this regard. Plants may be placed in a feeding bowl or directly on the ground or in the water, depending on your pet's preference.
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Offer live foods by placing fish and cricket sin the habitat with the turtle. Not only will this reduce work for you, it will provide your pet with some exercise and mental stimulation.
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Offer supplements to maintain your pet's health. Turtles require a great deal of calcium, which can be provided by keeping a cuttlebone in the habitat, offering calcium-rich greens such as kale or collards, or by other food additives available at pet stores. Some turtle keepers also recommend a multi-vitamin.
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Tips & Warnings
Not long after they eat, turtles usually defecate. You may want to use a separate tank for feeding or be otherwise prepared so your pet's main habitat remains clean and healthy.
Never feed live food you've caught yourself, as wild animals of any sort may carry disease or parasites that could harm your pet.
Never feed your turtle table scraps or undercooked meat, as these can make your pet very sick.
