When raising baby turtles, the first and most important step is selecting a healthy species. When purchasing, ensure that the turtles are fully developed, with no deformities, injuries, or signs of illness. They should be active and lively. Choose turtles that match the appropriate size and weight for their species. For example, Brazilian red-eared sliders should have a shell length of at least 3 cm and weigh over 6 grams. For box turtles, the shell length should be 2.6 cm or more, width around 2.2 cm, and weight above 3.5 grams. Yellow-throated turtles should weigh more than 7 grams.
Next, prepare the juvenile turtle enclosure with clean water and proper disinfection. The ideal setup is a rectangular cement pool with a slight slope (around 2.5 degrees) on the bottom to aid in drainage and cleaning. A cement platform should be placed inside the pool, half submerged in water and half exposed, allowing turtles to bask, hide, and feed. Before introducing hatchlings, disinfect the pool using bleach or lime. Maintain the water pH between 7 and 8, and keep it clear with a transparency of about 25–30 cm.
For stocking density, aim for 50 to 100 hatchlings per square meter. If the density is high, change the water frequently; if low, change it every five days. Before placing the turtles in the pool, soak them in a 4 ppm potassium permanganate solution or saltwater for about 20 minutes to prevent disease.
Maintain the water level at 10–20 cm, gradually increasing as they grow. Keep the water temperature between 26°C and 30°C, with a maximum daily temperature difference of 4°C. Add aquatic plants like water hyacinth or water lettuce to help purify the water and provide hiding spots, creating a natural and safe environment for the young turtles.
Feeding during the hatchling stage should focus on animal-based foods. Newly hatched turtles can rely on their yolk sac for the first day or two. After that, offer cooked egg yolk, red worms, or finely chopped green leeks. By the end of the first week, introduce minced fish, quail meat, and organ meats. All food must be fresh, soft, and easy to digest. Avoid tough or fatty foods like cocoons or large intestine parts. Feed twice daily, providing 5–10% of their total body weight, and leave the food out for two hours.
For winter care, there are two main methods: either keep them warm through controlled heating or allow them to hibernate naturally. Due to their small size and limited energy reserves, it’s safer to let them grow for at least two months before hibernation. To prepare for natural hibernation, spread 20 cm of moist sand in the bottom of the pool. Gently place the hatchlings into the sand and maintain its moisture by sprinkling water when needed. Cover the area with straw for insulation but avoid freezing the sand. If using temperature control, gradually lower the temperature over 5–7 days before exposing them to natural conditions. Sudden cooling can be fatal.
Disease prevention is essential. Change the water weekly and use a 1/10,000 potassium permanganate solution or 2 ppm furazolidone alternately. Mix terramycin or furazolidone into their food regularly. Clean the feeding area with bleach or lime often. If you notice any sluggish or floating turtles, isolate and treat them immediately. Also, protect the turtles from predators like cats, dogs, rats, snakes, and ants. Always stay alert and maintain a clean, safe environment for your hatchlings.
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