Land turtles encompass various species, including the Hermann’s tortoise, Greek tortoise, red-eared slider, and box turtle.
Each species has specific needs in terms of habitat, nutrition, and care. It’s crucial to research each species carefully to ensure their well-being in captivity. 🐢
Note that some species, such as the Hermann’s tortoise, are endangered, and their sale is prohibited. If you find one in the wild, you cannot take it home, as this would constitute illegal poaching. However, you can legally adopt a tortoise, provided you declare it. Given its status as a wild animal, it’s imperative to declare the possession of non-domestic species. This process can now be done online.
Creating a terrarium is not overly complex, provided you adhere to some best practices. In this article, we provide guidance on setting up your turtle’s habitat. Nonetheless, we recommend consulting your veterinarian and specialized websites to perfect your setup and ensure your reptile’s safety. (Yes, these fascinating animals are indeed part of the same family as snakes and alligators. They were actually on Earth before the dinosaurs…).
Providing a “Cool” and “Warm” Area
Providing a “cool” and “warm” area in the terrarium allows your turtle to regulate its body temperature by moving between zones according to its needs.
Inserting a thermometer for temperature control 🌡️ is crucial. Ambient temperature should be maintained as follows: 🌞 between 25 and 30°C during the day, 🌜 between 15 and 20°C at night; this nocturnal drop is essential. Additional heating can be provided by an infrared lamp or ceramic heat lamp.
Using Suitable Substrate
The substrate can consist of a mixture of soil and sand, allowing your land turtle to dig. Generally, the terrarium should offer enough hiding spots for the turtle to feel secure.
Recreating a Habitat Close to its Natural Environment
To make your turtle feel at home, you should:
- Include elements such as rocks, branches, and dead leaves to stimulate its activity.
- Secure the terrarium; the turtle should neither be able to escape nor be attacked by other animals (dogs, cats, etc.).
- Ensure good ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and respiratory diseases.
- Add non-toxic plants to recreate a natural environment and provide additional hiding spots.
- Maintain appropriate humidity levels depending on the turtle species, possibly using a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels.
- Provide a feeding area with leaves, vegetables, and fruits according to the specific dietary needs of the species.
- Install a shallow water dish for drinking and partial soaking.
What Kind of Litter to Use for a Turtle?
Each type of litter has its advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a list of possible litters for turtles:
- Soil and sand: A blend of untreated soil and sand is natural and allows the turtle to dig.
- Hemp: Highly absorbent and dust-free, hemp is a comfortable and safe option for turtles.
- Organic soil: Chemical-free organic soil is also suitable.
- Untreated wood: Shavings, such as aspen, which are absorbent and dust-free.
- Hay: Soft and natural, hay also provides fiber if ingested.
- Pine bark: Provides good absorption and odor reduction, but ensure it’s not too dusty.
- Dead leaves: Recreate a natural environment and allow the turtle to hide and dig.
- Newspaper: An economical option, although less natural.
Can Cat Litter be Used for My Turtle?
No, cat litter should not be used for turtles. ❌ Especially mineral-based cat litter likely contains chemicals, fragrances, or clumping agents that are harmful to your turtle’s health.
Opt for suitable litters like hemp, soil and sand, or aspen shavings.
When Should I Change My Turtle’s Litter?
✅ Immediately change litter areas soiled by feces or urine.
✅ Partially change the litter every 1 to 2 weeks by removing the dirtiest parts and adding fresh litter.
✅ Completely change the litter every 1 to 2 months, cleaning the terrarium thoroughly before adding new litter.
(The frequency may vary depending on the terrarium size, type of litter used, and number of turtles present).
Do I Need to Change the Turtle’s Litter During Hibernation?
No, it’s generally not necessary to change the turtle’s litter during hibernation. Once the turtle has settled for hibernation, it’s best not to disturb it. Just ensure the litter is clean and suitable before hibernation begins.
Throughout this dormant period, ensure your turtle doesn’t lose more than 10 kilograms. Note that a turtle that doesn’t hibernate is more prone to illness and reduced lifespan.
How Thick Should the Litter be for My Turtle to Feel Comfortable?
For your turtle to feel comfortable, the litter should be thick enough to allow natural digging and burying behaviors. Here are some recommendations to perfect your terrarium setup:
- Small turtles: A thickness of 5 to 10 cm is generally sufficient.
- Medium to large turtles: Plan for a thickness of 10 to 15 cm or more, depending on the turtle’s size.
This thickness allows the turtle to hide, regulate its temperature, and feel secure in its environment.
Aubizoo : Hemp Litter Adapted for Your Turtles
Are you familiar with Aubizoo ?
It’s a hemp litter perfect for your NACs (New Pets) and small pets , thanks to its super absorbent power and comfort. This hemp litter, free from herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides, is made from 100% industrial hemp.
It controls odors and has a very low dust level. Another advantage of Aubizoo litter is its ease of use and ability to compost in 6 to 8 weeks.
Aubizoo is also sustainable, with our first range using 50% recycled plastic in its packaging.
Liquids are absorbed and retained at the bottom, leaving the top layer dry and comfortable.
Allowed Turtle Species for Adoption in France
Turtle species allowed for adoption in France include:
- Spur-thighed tortoises or spur-thighed tortoises, native to Africa, measuring between 60 and 80 cm as adults.
- Chinemys reevesii, Asian aquatic turtles, measuring 15 to 18 cm as adults.
- Freshwater turtles Elseya novaeguineae and Emydura, native to Australia, reaching about 30 cm as adults.
- Leopard tortoises, a terrestrial species from Africa, measuring about 40 cm as adults.
The cases of Hermann’s tortoises and Greek tortoises are more complex and require authorization and accreditation for breeding (AEA) from your prefecture. There are many other species and subspecies of turtles. The important thing is to choose the one that best suits your home!
In Brief
Creating an optimal environment for your turtle in a terrarium requires considering various elements such as temperature, substrate, “decoration,” and nutrition.
By choosing suitable litter like hemp, you ensure not only comfort but also your turtle’s health.
Don’t forget to regularly clean and replace the litter to maintain a clean habitat conducive to its well-being.
