Feeding and Nutrition :: How big should my turtles be ??????????

[slidin_sliders]

hi,

my 2 RES's are both about a year old and there shells are both about 4.3 inches long.

i just wanted to know if that is the common size for a year old turtle bacause im kinda getting the feeling that they're way too big.

[sonyj]

Sounds like they are a little big for one year olds. Around 3 inches is average for a one year old ever give or take a litte. But you do have to take into account genetics, living conditions, and diet since each turtle is different just like people.

What is their set up like and their diet?

[slidin_sliders]

my tank is actually quite small for 2 4 inch RES. its only about 15 gallons. i've been wanting to buy a bigger one for a while now...

anyways. it has a basking area, and about 2 - 2.5 feet to swim.

not very much..

i have actually been feeding them less than required about only 5-8 mins instead of 15.


they get reptomin calcium sticks, mealworms, and lettuce. thats about there regualr daily diet.

[sonyj]

Do not follow the instructions on the can that say to feed them in minutes, mine could eat the can full....

The guide to feeding the right amount of pellets is as follows... only feed the amount of pellets that would fit inside their head if it were hollow not including the neck. For turtles over a year old, this is every other day NOT daily. Mealworms should not be a part of their regular diet and a variety of veggies should be offered daily.

[missibsu]

As you mentioned, you are aware of the inadequacies of your current set up. There is a big difference between a 15 gallon tank, and they 80 gallons that they should have. Eventually it will lead to health problems for your turtles.

Have your looked for a local freecycle group in your area? www.freecycle.org or check www.craigslist.com for some great deals.

[slidin_sliders]

im only 13

and i dont live by myself like u guys all do

i have to follow my parents rules and everything

and they dont give me allowance either

they aren't very enthusiastic about me keeping 2 turtles when they got them for me they were just in small plastic boxe like the one that you keep hermit crabs.

i have already worked pretty hard to get the money to buy a small 15 gallon tank.

so im just trying to say its not that easy for me to raise my 2 turtles but im not willing to just give up on them so easily.

[missibsu]

While I'm an adult, I still live at home too. Unfortunately I have to earn my own income . My parents aren't thrilled about having a 75 gallon tank in their living room, but they enjoy the turtles as much as I do. Approach the subject with your parents about responsibility. This is a great lesson for you and they should see it as such!

Check out the freecycle link that I posted. Everything that goes through freecycle is FREE. If you can get even a 20 gallon or 30 gallon tank from someone that would help. There are always rubbermaid containers too!

[slidin_sliders]

cool thanks!

[iris]

slidinsliders, I have the same problem as you. I'm 15, but I don't get allowance either. It sucks, I know. I thank Missi for that link!! Perhaps I can get a bigger tank for my turtle.