Why did my juvenile long neck turtle die?

Question

We were given a juvenile long neck turtle about 6 weeks ago. I was unhappy about it but the kids were sooo excited. I went to the pet shop and bought all the stuff it apparently needed, ie. tank with platform for turtles, filter system, uv lamp, basking lamp, heater, calcium blocks, decorations and food and it cost me about $600.00 all up. I hand fed the little thing daily and read several books on turtles. The water was cleaned regularly and ph levels checked also. The kids were never allowed to handle him.
I came home from work the other day to find him dead. To be honest i was quite devastated as were the kids. I dont know what i did wrong and i feel incredibly guilty because he died. Did i do something wrong or did i not do something that i should have? The kids want to get another, but im not so sure.

Answer 1

Don't beat yourself up, the mortality rate for baby turtles is about 80%, in the wild or in captivity. And there are alot of irresponsible suppliers in the pet trade. Perhaps you should try a more mature turtle the next time, the odds are more in your favor then. Don't feel guilty, even the most experianced reptile breeder will face losses, especially babies.You did everything in your power to provide him with everything he needed.

Answer 2

You might give it a try again. I have a painted turtle and he has lived for eight years in a medium sized clear rubbermade container filled up about half way up with water. I feed him wardley premium reptile sticks. I just put a brick in the center of the tank for him to climb up on and dry out. He has lived for eight years so he must be pretty happy. Anually the do not eat from about October to Mid March. Then form mid march on to october, they eat. Feed them about one time a day and feed them about 3 sticks.

Answer 3

i have had every animal or little creature you can get from the pet store. exotics are very delicate and sensitive and difficult to take care of, at least in my experience. ive done the same thing too, just recently it was hermit crabs for my son, and 1 of them died. i think they have a very short life span in captivity.