North American box turtles are mainly terrestrial turtles, although they do spend some time in shallow water (Asian box turtles tend to be a bit more aquatic). Compared to aquatic turtles such as red eared sliders, they are more challenging and complex pets, and are not the best choice for beginning
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Turtles are not easy or low maintenance reptiles. Generally, turtles (including the commonly found red-eared sliders) are messy and long-lived. They can get quite large, so they require large housing and need exposure to ultraviolet light. Also, offering a variety of foods, like commercial pelleted food, fruits, and vegetables, is the best way to feed most turtles. If you can deal with these factors and commit to caring for a turtle over its long life span, a turtle might be a good pet for you. Here, we go over a few of the most common species of turtles to own and care for as pets.
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Box Turtles
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Red Eared Sliders
Red eared sliders are semi aquatic turtles that are very commonly kept as pets. Unfortunately, lack of understanding what they require means that many red eared sliders have died from improper care. While they are not overly demanding as pets, many unsuspecting owners have been told that it was fine
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Tortoises
Tortoises can make an interesting pet, although they can present a challenge, due to their size and dietary habits. Their diets vary based on species, but all need quite a variety of foods, with careful attention paid to the amount of roughage as well as calcium/phosphorus balance. Some species have
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