General Care Discussion :: When does a turtle change its "status" ?

[MoreBloodWine]

Ok so by status I mean like hatchling, juvenile, adult etc.

Far as I know Niko is still considered a hatchling.

[Caphits]

I think it would be when you can tell if its a boy or a girl is when its no longer a hatchling. And sexual maturity would be and adult. That is just my opinion though.

[Raphulk]

id say that turtles are generally a hatchling until they are legal to be sold as pets (4 inches shell length) although some turtles grow faster.

and adult would have to be sexual maturity, which some argue is when the male shows his goods, i dont know when females do though, i think when the become gravid (but not pregnant)

[MoreBloodWine]

id say that turtles are generally a hatchling until they are legal to be sold as pets (4 inches shell length) although some turtles grow faster.

and adult would have to be sexual maturity, which some argue is when the male shows his goods, i dont know when females do though, i think when the become gravid (but not pregnant)

Makes sense, If Niko turns out to be a boy I think I'll DIE laughing the day I catch him flagging.

Also, I know this has been asked and answered before but humor me on this and please answer

When might I be able to tell with some certainty wether or not Niko is a boy or girl ?

[Caphits]

I think around 4-5 inches long. Although, if you have seen queenjane's thread, you would see that, that is not always a definite thing.

[SpotsMama]

Here's some info. Look towards the bottom of the page:

http://www.redearslider.com/anatomy.html

[Bascomb]

When placing a turtle in the adult status I don't think that the determination of sex is that crucial. I use the length as a guide post which is 3-1/2 inches. At that size I reduce there feeding to every other day. When they are small you have a tendency to over feed and that can lead to other problems. b.