Pet Information > ASK Experts > Exotic Pets > Turtles > Red Ear Slider Babies

Red Ear Slider Babies

22 16:20:25

Question
I recently have come into the possession of a baby red ear slider.  I know how to take care of the adults since my work sells them, but I also realize that the babies needs are going to be much different.  I have a 20 gallon tank set up with shallow water, a heat lamp, and a dry basking area.  I was planning on feeding her small crickets, cut up waxworms, and crushed turtle food (as she's too small to eat whole pellets).  I was wondering if there's anything else specific I should be doing.  I know to keep her temp. at about 80-85 and have full intention of upgrading her habitat as she grows.  Anymore input would be awesome. Thanks!

Answer
Things sound OK, but...

1. The water does not have to be shallow. You can fill a 20 most of the way and give the little guy some space to swim and work out in- as long as it has easy access to a good basking site.

2. The diet is OK, you may want to add blood worms, small live or frozen/thawed shrimp, etc. for some variety.

3. We generally go with slightly cooler temps, 75-80F, but 80ish is great.

You've probably seen them, but my favorite sites afor these are http://www.redearslider.com and http://www.austinsturtlepage.com

Austin's especially is a great site for the dedicated keeper!