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Three Methods:ShelterFeeding the TerrapinCaring for Sick Terrapins

Diamond back terrapins are commonly available and are sold in many pet stores. If terrapins are not properly cared for, they can die of disease. If you have the responsibility to look after terrapins, there are several things you should know.

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EditMethod 1 of 3: Shelter

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    1
    Purchase a glass tank for your terrapin. The size of the tank will depend on the size of the terrapin. You will want your terrapin to have plenty of room to move around. If your terrapin is small, you may want to start out with a small tank, and then purchase a bigger one as the terrapin grows.
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    Buy a glass tank that you can heat. Terrapins thrive in temperatures as warm as 75 to 80 degrees F (24 to 26 degrees C). Do not place the tank in direct sunlight.
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    Attach an ultraviolet light to your glass tank. Terrapins need artificial sunlight. The light should be placed on a timer to resemble actual sunlight.
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    Place about 4 inches (10 cm) of water in the bottom of the tank. If the terrapin is large, you might be able to add more water. Terrapins will only eat in the water.
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    Set a slate rock or brick that rises up out of the water in the tank. You can purchase terrapin huts or platforms at a pet store. The terrapin needs a place to climb to sun itself.
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    Clean the glass tank once a week with clean water and a brush. Be sure to wear rubber gloves. Never use bleach.

EditMethod 2 of 3: Feeding the Terrapin

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    Feed terrapins small pieces of raw beef, fish or liver. The food should be broken into pieces that are smaller than a match head. You can purchase actual terrapin food from a pet store. Cuttle-fish is a good pet store food that you can feed terrapins. Feed the terrapins twice a day.
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    Avoid feeding terrapins in the dark. They will not eat in the dark or the cold.
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    Give the terrapin lettuce a few times a week. They are mostly carnivores, but you can give terrapins lettuce.
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    Sprinkle the food in slowly. Remove any uneaten food particles from the water.

EditMethod 3 of 3: Caring for Sick Terrapins

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    1
    Seek the advice of a veterinarian if your terrapin becomes sick. Common diseases are caused by bacteria and fungi. One such disease causes the terrapin's shell to become soft.
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EditTips

  • Wash your hands often when caring for the terrapin or cleaning the tank.
  • Terrapins can become as large as 9 inches (22 cm). You would need a very large tank for a terrapin this size.
  • Be careful... they can bite at your fingers!
  • Avoid keeping your terrapin around a cat as cats like to eat terrapins. Be aware of any other predators.
  • Prawns can also be fed to the terrapins!

EditThings You'll Need

  • Glass Tank
  • Terrapin hut or rock
  • Heater
  • Light
  • Terrapin food
  • Lettuce
  • Cleaning brush
  • Water

EditSources and Citations

Article Info

Categories: Turtles and Tortoises

Recent edits by: Ccatclaws, Lutherus, Savannah

In other languages:

Español: Cómo cuidar a las tortugas de espalda de diamante, Italiano: Come Badare alle Tartarughe d'Acqua Dolce, Português: Como Tomar Conta de Tartarugas Fluviais

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