Turtles ^_^?

Question

i really want a turtle and can totally handle the responsibility and everything, so just to let you know that's not what i'm asking, but what i do want to know is when can i get one? There's usually a bunch at the lakes around here but i haven't seen any lately, like since late summer i guess, maybe a bit b4 that. i called the pet store and one din't have any, the other was like 90 bucks for one(not paying that) and i think 20 for another but it needed to constanly b n water. i want one that can run around. ^_^ Anyone know when i might start seeing them again? Also, about how much does it cost per month to keep it fed and everything. Someone told me they're not very clean, so don't try to tell me that, i know and don't care. i keep my stuff clean. ^_^ thanks! btw, srry if i sound like irrated or anything, long day... blah. thanks in advance! ^_^

Answer 1

Do not catch a wild turtle. It is illegal in most places, and while most of the time no one will care, there are some states that take at least some species of turtles very seriously.

Wild turtles are also very stressed by being caged and just plain do not thrive.

If your pet shops are not carrying turtles, you have a few options.
- Wait till spring when they usually carry them again
- Find a local breeder to buy from (the best option), or
- Find a good on-line source to buy from. Http://www.turtleforum.com has good people there, and they discuss good and bad dealers in their forums.

I am unclear about what kind of turtle you want. If you are unsure as well, try this article: http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Articles/firstturtle.htm

For good general care advice, try http://www.austinsturtlepage.com

As for costs-
- It can cost $150-200 to set up a good habitat, mostly the tank and filter.
- Weekly costs for feeding only run a few bucks- good pellets, some worms, small fish, frozen krill, etc.

Answer 2

I don't recommend you simply just get one from the wild. I think you should research on the internet for qualified dealers that provide appropriate certification. The one that needs to be in water sounds like a turtle. A normal tortoise (dependent on breed) generally needs warmth, so around 20 degrees during the day which you can get from a vivarium. They should be alllowed to wonder outside in the garden as much as possible. I don't think they're very messy creatures to keep at all, so don't let that out you off. In terms of feeding costpermonth the best food is free, fresh weeds and other edible plants (which you can find on the internet) and occassionally calcium powder...

Answer 3

Don't just grab one from a pond, they might have diseases, I know Pet Smart has some, If it's an aquatic turtle they need a big tank, water, a filter, and some food pellets to eat. You can take them out of the tank and let them run around, but they can't eat unless they are in the water. Sorry don't know too much about land turtles though, I guess you need a dry tank and dry food, maybe lettuce?

Answer 4

Turtles are NOT illegal as pets in NC they are illegal to sell at a certain size.
If your not willing to pay for a turtle what makes you think you can afford what it needs? UVB,filtration,heating,a sizeable tank, certain kinds of food.Taking animals from the wild just because its cheaper is the stupidest thing I have heard. Disease,population of the species and its ILLEGAL for some species.
Theres a reason your not seeing turtles, its getting colder.

Answer 5

Well, turtles are illegal as pets where I live (North Carolina) but I had one that I had gotten in South Carolina, a red eared slider named Otis. He didn’t seem happy in his tank and just always sat around, so I let him go. But, a friend of mine got a turtle at the same place at the same time (they were only about $15), and she still has hers. It’s been about 4 years. It has grown really big and she has to keep it in a kiddie pool. They aren’t expensive to keep at all. Food lasts a really long time. So there’s not even really a monthly bill. Just don’t forget that it’s going to get bigger. A lot bigger. And you’ll have to keep buying bigger and bigger tanks until its in a kiddie pool. Make sure you have the room for it. Also, I wouldn’t capture one to keep because like with my experience it wasn’t happy stuck in a tank. He barely moved. So keep that in mind. I’d get it from the store. Just look around, you can find cheaper ones.

Answer 6

Sounds to me like you're not ready for a turtle just yet.

Answer 7

um pets mart i guess