Do Turtles Need a Heat Lamp? Indoor Terrapin Setup
Indoor pond terrapins need a warm, dry basking area, UVB light and correctly heated water. Learn how to position the lamp and check the temperatures safely.
4 min read
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Turtles
Explore life at the water’s edge.
Discover our turtle collection, with topics devoted to species differences, habitats and the care questions to consider before keeping a turtle.
Articles in Turtles
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How to Make Tap Water Safe for Turtles
Treat replacement tap water with a suitable dechlorinator before adding it to a freshwater turtle tank. Match the temperature and keep testing the tank water.
3 min read
Cloudy Turtle Tank Water: What to Check and How to Fix It
Cloudy water does not show whether your turtle’s tank is safe. Test ammonia and nitrite first, then remove waste, check the filter and make suitable partial water changes.
4 min read
Can Tortoises See in the Dark? Vision and Night-Time Care
Tortoises cannot see in complete darkness, and claims of exceptional night vision are unsupported. Learn what dim light means, whether a pet needs a night light and which eye changes need a vet.
3 min read
Can Turtles Drown? Risks, Prevention and What to Do
Yes. Turtles breathe air and can drown if they cannot reach the surface. Learn how to keep a pet aquatic turtle safe and what to do if it is unresponsive.
3 min read
Do Turtles Have Feelings? What Their Behaviour Can Tell You
Turtles can experience pain and stress, but a turtle approaching you does not prove affection. Learn what behaviour can and cannot tell you, and when to seek help.
4 min read
How Long Do Red-Eared Sliders Sleep? What Is Normal
Red-eared sliders usually rest at night, but there is no reliable single hour target for a pet turtle. Learn where they rest, how to set a day–night routine and which changes need a reptile vet.
3 min read
Do Tortoises Like Water? Drinking, Soaking and Swimming Safety
Tortoises need fresh water to drink and may use a shallow dish to bathe. Learn what is safe, why deep water is dangerous for many pet tortoises, and when to ask a reptile vet.
3 min read
Why Does My Tortoise Bite Me? Causes and What to Do
A pet tortoise may nip near food or during handling. Learn how to spot the trigger, reduce bites and care for a wound if its beak breaks your skin.
4 min read
Do Tortoises Get Lonely? Should Your Pet Have a Companion?
A tortoise kept alone is not automatically lonely. Learn when company may cause problems, what behaviour can tell you and when to seek veterinary advice.
3 min read
Red-Eared Slider Water Temperature: Hatchlings, Adults and Basking
For red-eared sliders, the water setting differs by age and from the warmer basking area. Learn the RSPCA guidance and how to check both temperatures.
3 min read
Early Signs of Shell Pyramiding in Tortoises: What to Check
Raised shell scutes can be a sign of abnormal growth. Learn which changes need a reptile-vet assessment and which additional symptoms need prompt care.
3 min read
How to Care for a North American Box Turtle
North American box turtles need a spacious land enclosure, suitable heat and humidity, UVB light, varied food and shallow water. Learn the essentials and a simple daily routine.
5 min read
Dollar Turtles: Which Pet Turtles Stay Small?
Small turtles still need serious care. Compare adult sizes, understand the “dollar turtle” label and check housing, health and local rules before choosing one.
6 min read
Showing 12–14 of 14 articles