What Red Eared Slider Turtle Eat?

If you are a turtle lover, it is important to know what type of food your Red Eared Slider Turtle needs. Red Eared Slider Turtles are an aquatic species and knowing what they should eat is essential for their health and well-being. In this article, we will discuss what Red Eared Slider Turtles eat, their dietary needs, and the best food options available. With this information, you can ensure your Red Eared Slider Turtle stays happy and healthy.

What Do Red Eared Slider Turtles Eat?

Red Eared Slider Turtles (RES) are omnivorous turtles that are native to the United States. They are one of the most popular pet turtles due to their hardiness and the availability of captive-bred specimens. RES need a varied diet that includes both plant and animal matter. Knowing what to feed your RES turtle can be confusing, so it’s important to understand what they need to stay healthy.

Commercial Turtle Food

Commercial turtle food can be an easy way to provide your RES turtle with a balanced diet. These foods are available in pellets, blocks, and floating sticks. They contain all the vitamins and minerals that a RES turtle needs, and they are formulated to meet the turtle’s nutritional needs. Additionally, they are easy to store and come in a variety of flavors that appeal to the turtle.

Fresh Vegetables

Fresh vegetables are an important part of a RES turtle’s diet. Leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and collard greens should be offered daily. Vegetables such as squash, carrots, and green beans should also be offered. These vegetables should be chopped into small pieces so that the turtle can easily eat them. Fruits such as apples and strawberries can also be offered, but should be given in moderation.

Protein Sources

Protein is an important part of a RES turtle’s diet. In the wild, their diet consists of a variety of insects, worms, and small fish. In captivity, they can be offered live insects such as crickets, mealworms, and waxworms. Commercial turtle foods also contain protein, but it is best to offer some variety in the form of live foods. In addition, cooked, non-seasoned lean meats such as beef, chicken, and turkey can be offered.

Aquatic Plants

Aquatic plants are also important for a RES turtle’s diet. These plants provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber that are essential for the turtle’s health. Some of the most popular aquatic plants for RES turtles include Anacharis, Hornwort, and Vallisneria. These plants can be purchased at pet stores or online, and they should be kept in the water with the turtle.

Foods to Avoid

It is important to avoid certain foods when feeding your RES turtle. Processed foods such as chips, candy, and cookies should be avoided as they are not nutritious and can cause health problems. Additionally, RES turtles should not be fed any type of dairy product, as they are unable to digest it.

Feeding Schedule

It is important to feed your RES turtle on a regular schedule. Juvenile turtles should be fed once or twice a day, while adult turtles can be fed once every other day. It is important not to overfeed your turtle, as this can lead to health problems. It is best to offer small amounts of food at a time and remove any uneaten food after 15-20 minutes.

Vitamin and Mineral Supplementation

RES turtles should be supplemented with vitamins and minerals on a regular basis. A commercial turtle vitamin should be offered weekly and a calcium supplement should be offered 2-3 times per week. These supplements should be dusted on the food before feeding.

Freshwater Quality

It is important to maintain clean water for your RES turtle. The water should be tested regularly for ammonia, nitrates, and nitrites. The water should be changed on a regular basis, as dirty water can lead to health problems. Additionally, the water should be filtered to remove any debris or waste.

Treats

It is important to offer treats to your RES turtle on occasion. These treats should be given in moderation and can include small pieces of cooked lean meats, shrimp, and earthworms. Fruits such as apples, melon, and strawberries can also be offered.

Summary

Red Eared Slider Turtles are omnivorous and need a varied diet that includes both plant and animal matter. Commercial turtle food can be an easy way to provide a balanced diet, and fresh vegetables, protein sources, and aquatic plants should be offered. Processed foods and dairy products should be avoided, and vitamins and minerals should be supplemented on a regular basis. Treats can be offered in moderation, and clean, filtered water should be provided at all times. Knowing what to feed your RES turtle is essential for its health and longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Do Red Eared Slider Turtles Eat?

Answer: Red Eared Slider Turtles are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter. These turtles will typically feed on insects, worms, crustaceans, mollusks and other small aquatic animals. They also eat aquatic plants, algae, and leftover food from other animals. Red Eared Sliders turtles can be trained to eat commercial turtle food, but they should be given a variety of food in their diet to maintain optimal health.

Additionally, red eared slider turtles should be given a vitamin supplement to ensure they get the essential vitamins and minerals they need. On occasion, they may also be offered a treat of fresh fruit, vegetables, and other foods that are safe for them to eat. Overall, Red Eared Slider Turtles should have a balanced diet of both plant and animal matter for optimal health.

How To Feed Red-Eared Slider Turtle (Complete Feeding Guide)

The Red Eared Slider Turtle is an omnivore and can thrive on a diet of commercial turtle pellets, along with various fruits and vegetables, as well as insects and small aquatic animals. With proper care and nutrition, these turtles can live for up to 40 years, so it is important to ensure they are receiving the appropriate diet that meets their nutritional needs. With the right diet, Red Eared Slider Turtles can be a wonderful and interesting addition to any home.