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I have just adopted a baby RES, it's about six months old. I've read just about every section on this site to ensure optimal care of this little guy, But - I'm wondering how much handling time is appropriate. I understand the washing of the hands and the precaustions regarding bacterias etc.
It just seems that whenever we walk past its tank it comes swimming right over and watches us. It seems like it wants some attention. Is this possible or is it more likely its begging for food. We do take it out of its tank periodically, but how often and for how long should these " attention times" take place ? does it even matter to a turtle ? Do they enjoy being handled ?

Thanks greatly.

It's best not to handle young turtles too much, the rapid changes in temperature can stress them out. Some older turtles like coming out for a walk, others never like it. Your turtle is probably begging, but they do seem to like attention.

Turtles are more like a look at and enjoy type of pet than a "touchy feely" type. Some turtles owners take their turtles out of the tank and let it walk around. But keep in mind some turtles do not like it. So just try to keep handling to a minuim.