Florida Softshell Turtle Baby Care

Florida softshells may live more than 30 years in captivity.

Florida softshell turtle baby care.

There are many different kinds of soft shelled turtles. They do not reach sexual maturity until eight years. Photo by tim. Here are some highlights.

A newborn is about the size of a half dollar give or take and a healthy baby grows very gradually. These turtles can also become very large and sometimes they can be aggressive towards other turtles and humans. Most importantly they can grow to be quite large so it s important to know how to care for them. In the wild they are strong carnivores preferring crayfish snails mussels frogs and assorted worms and insects.

Florida softshell turtle. They can however make excellent pets if you know what to expect and how to handle it. The florida softshell turtle can grow over two feet and the weight can reach up to 40 pounds which means that if it is the breed that you plan to have as a pet you need to choose a large aquarium. Be sure to provide a basking dock heat and uvb lighting.

The quality of the water in the tank is important to create a healthy environment for the softshell turtle. Male 6 12 female 8 24 diet. Some haev been know to eat some vegetation. Soft shelled turtles require a very particular habitat and regular diligent care.

Live or pre killed fish insects and worms as well as commercial fish and turtle pellets are all appropriate fare for soft shelled turtles. If you think a softshell turtle is a good fit for you get your turtle from a reputable breeder or rescue organization that can provide information on its origin and health. Naturally occurring out of southeastern united states ranging from alabama georgia south carolina and florida. Because of their complex care needs softshell turtles usually aren t recommended for beginners.

The florida softshell turtles are cute smart and fun pets to have. The baby softshell turtle is one of the hardest turtles to keep as a pet. Florida softshell turtle care. Choosing your softshell turtle.

They re highly animated feeders and nearly any edible material plunked into the tank will be eagerly devoured by a softshell. A large female can lay two clutches each year totaling as many as 70 eggs. With proper care these turtles can live 20 30 years in captivity. Expect to pay between 50 and 150 on average.