Red-eared slider turtles are one of the most popular species of turtles kept as pets. To ensure they have a healthy and balanced diet, it's important to know what they eat in the wild and in captivity.
A red-eared slider turtle's diet should consist of a variety of food items, including commercial turtle pellets, vegetables, and live or frozen prey. Here are some of the best food items that you can offer your red-eared slider turtle:
This is the mainstay of a red-eared slider's diet. These pellets are formulated to provide all of the necessary nutrients for your turtle's growth and development.
You can purchase turtle pellets at any pet store, and they come in a variety of sizes and formulas.
Red-eared slider turtles also need a variety of vegetables to keep them healthy. You can feed your turtle dark leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and collard greens, as well as carrots, sweet potatoes, and squash.
Red-eared slider turtles are also carnivorous and need a source of protein in their diet. You can offer your turtle live or frozen prey, such as mealworms, crickets, or shrimp.
You can also offer your turtle occasional treats, such as small pieces of fruit or cooked chicken or fish. However, treats should not make up a significant portion of your turtle's diet, as they are high in fat and can lead to obesity.
Red-eared slider turtles enjoy eating aquatic plants. Submerged plants such as anacharis are a favorite of turtles, along with water hyacinth, water lettuce, duckweed, azolla (fairy moss), and frog-bit.
By providing your turtle with a balanced diet, you can help ensure its health and longevity.