- 1). Set up a tank for your baby painted turtle. The tank should be at least three times the width of the turtle's shell and six times the length. Since your turtle will live for 15 to 25 years, and will grow during that time, start with a large tank for the turtle to grow into. Set up a rocky area, to enable the turtle to get out of the water, and fill the tank with clean water. The water should be as deep as the turtle's shell is wide, so that the painted turtle has plenty of room to dive and swim.
- 2). Attach a stick-on thermometer to the side of the tank, under water. Monitor the temperature and maintain an environment of 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit in the tank. Set up a UV lighting system to warm the tank and give the turtle the light it needs.
- 3). Feed your baby painted turtle every other day with a handful of turtle food and a handful of chopped lettuce and vegetables. Your turtle should be able to finish all the food you give him within 45 minutes. Clean out uneaten food every day to keep the tank neat and clean. Dust the food once a week with a turtle vitamin supplement, available at pet stores.
- 4). Clean the turtle's water once a week by emptying the tank out and providing fresh water. A baby painted turtle's water should always be clear.
previous post