【How-to】Can you have 2 turtles in the same tank

Do turtles do better in pairs?

Turtles are not social creatures. They do not get lonely and do not need a friend. … You can always put more than one turtle in the same tank, though some species tend to be more aggressive and some may fight, so this is best handled on a case by case basis. Turtles DO carry salmonella (so do all other reptiles).

How big of a tank do I need for 2 turtles?

Make sure your turtle’s habitat is big enough.

In other words, you should have at least 10 gallons of water for each inch of the first turtle’s length, plus another five gallons of water for each inch of every additional turtle’s length. That’s the absolute minimum.

Can turtles live with other turtles?

‘ Yes. Turtles of the same species generally live peacefully together as long as they are all adults or all juveniles. Freshwater turtles such as map turtles, musk and mud turtles, painted turtles, cooters, and sliders can all live together.

Can I put 2 red eared sliders together?

Multiple Species

As long as the enclosure is large enough, you can house a red-eared slider with other species who share the same housing requirements. But a red-eared slider may outcompete and outgrow the other species. … If you want to house multiple species, it’s best to house them in a large outdoor environment.

Do turtles like to be held?

Turtles prefer to be alone, and they never welcome being picked up and handled. Because turtles aren’t affectionate, don’t like to be held, stroked or cuddled and don’t play with toys, many people lose interest and cease to take proper care of them.

Do turtles only grow as big as their tank?

Do Turtles Grow to the Size of their Tank

One myth about turtles that commonly comes up is that they won’t grow any larger than their tank. … As long as a turtle is well fed and properly taken care of you should expect they will eventually grow to reach their genetic potential.

Do turtles get lonely?

Do pet turtles get lonely if they don’t have a companion? No! The fact is that turtles will be totally fine on their own. They don’t need to share a tank with another turtle to be happy and content, and you don’t need to worry about turtle loneliness!

Why is it illegal to have a red-eared slider?

Officials emphasized that it is illegal for owners of red-eared slider turtles to release them into the wild, because they are an invasive species in Delaware. Releasing non-native animals, as well as any captive animal, into the wild creates a risk of spreading diseases to the native population.

Do turtles recognize each other?

Turtles can recognize their owners, but it can take some time to understand who the primary owner or caretaker is. For instance, if you live in a household where different people alternate feeding the turtle, it might take some time for the turtle to distinguish one specific person.

Are turtles happy in a tank?

Keeping a Turtle Happy

By ensuring that they have a tank of adequate size, clean water, proper temperatures, plants and decorations, a basking spot, and a healthy diet, your turtle should thrive. Providing him with items to keep him mentally stimulated such as toys and live food can also make for a very happy turtle.

Is it cruel to keep turtles in a tank?

False: Turtles are wild animals. They have territories that can be many miles wide. Putting them in a tank is cruel. … A turtle needs a large habitat or a pond to approximate nature, not a tank.

Do turtles want a friend?

No, turtles do not make friends. For the most part they are solitary animals and not social species. They come together for biological functions (e.g. mating, arribadas, feeding, etc.). They bask together because of prime basking sites and possibly for better protection (more eyes to look out for danger).

Can you let a turtle walk around your house?

Yes, by all means, you can let your turtle roam around in an enclosed area. So long as plan ahead and can supervise. One of the best ways to do this is to let them loose in a closed room. In this way, you shouldn’t lose your turtle too easily and they are unlikely to come to any harm.

Do turtles need toys?

Turtles love toys! There are many things turtles enjoy playing with. … Your turtle will enjoy pushing the toys around and moving them about the tank. Rocks, sticks, plants – Turtles are naturally curious, so any objects you include in their tank will become something for them to investigate and play with.

How long can turtle stay out of water?

Turtles can usually stay out of water for around 8 hours. However, this depends on the environment of the land they are on. If the area has a cool temperature, a turtle can stay out of the water for a couple days. That being said, a turtle will run into serious digestion issues if they stay out of water too long.

Can I put a small turtle with a big one?

You can keep aggressive species with turtles if they are smaller than the turtles; in general, the turtles must be larger than the fishes’ heads.

Why does my turtle keep trying to climb out?

Most often, turtles try to escape their tanks because the tank does not provide a suitable habitat. Whether the tank is too small, dirty, or does not provide enough stimulation, turtles will try to escape. … Make sure the tank is large enough for your turtle and is constantly clean.

Is sunlight good for turtles?

If artificial UV light sources are unavailable, turtles should be exposed to direct sunlight for 2-4 hours daily. Most take advantage of the warm sunlight resting on their basking areas. The water in small aquariums can readily become overheated if no shade is provided.

Will my turtle drown?

So, yes, turtles can drown, though it is uncommon, and most turtles know their limits for being underwater. With most home aquariums, it’s highly unlikely for a turtle to drown in a tank, just be careful if you have a large tank with many obstacles.

Do turtles need to bask?

Basking is essential for the turtle’s health. It allows the turtle to completely dry out and warm up. This makes it more difficult for fungal infections to develop because fungus needs moisture to grow.

How long should I let my turtle bask?

Turtles generally bask between 2 to 8 hours each day. Most turtles such as map turtles and sliders follow this basking routine, and isn’t an issue as far as the turtle returns to the water each day and stays there for significant amounts of time.