Summer     July / March

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Welcome to our site! With summer in full swing, please be mindful of air/water temperatures and the location of your tank. Turtles kept indoors should not be exposed to direct sunlight and those outside should have access to shade.

Basking out in the Sun is always beneficial for RES, but do keep in mind where they are. If they don't have an outdoor enclosure, they must be constantly supervised and other pets should be kept away. Do not put them in a small plastic tub with little or no water out in the Sun. Temperatures would simply soar to unsafe levels.

Thanks for reading, I hope you all have a wonderful summer.
Steve

Replies to some questions     March / July

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Here are some responses to those who send us questions but don't (or can't) leave an e-mail address for a reply:

Turtles are not like most other pets that can just be picked up and played with. They should always be handled carefully and when necessary.

Keeping any pet is about responsibilities and turtles are no exception. Turtle supplies and housing will be expensive and will require room. Cleaning filters and changing water are chores that need to be done regularly. Healthy red ear sliders will grow large and need the appropriate diet, habitat and space.

Hatchlings or baby turtles, are very fragile. It is illegal to sell them in the US (except for educational purposes) and there is a good chance you'll get one that is sick. There's no reason to buy a hatchling while there are so many adult RES available.

Hatchling RES die because they are already sick, they are stressed from an inadequate home and improperly cared for. Veterinary costs and a good setup are costs that a future turtle keeper should be prepared for.