Pond Slider Or Eastern Box: Comparing The Best Pet Turtles

By  //  November 15, 2021

Turtles are not low-maintenance or easy-to-care-for reptiles. Turtles (particularly the common red-eared slider) are filthy, long-lived, grow quite large (requiring extensive homes), and require ultraviolet light exposure. Turtles are not as low-maintenance as many people believe, according to the Humane Society of the United States.

A turtle might be a good pet for you if you can deal with these problems and commit to care for it during its lengthy life cycle, but the most crucial component is understanding the right dietary and environmental needs of the species you choose the best pet turtle.

Choosing The Best Pet Turtle

When picking a turtle, the following are some of the most significant factors to consider:

What kind of personality would you prefer for your turtle? Some species are more kind and gentle than others.

What size turtle can you afford to look after? A turtle’s minimum tank capacity is 10 gallons per inch of carapace length, thus a turtle that develops to 12 inches will require a 120-gallon tank. Do you have the room (and the funds) for a tank that big?

Is the appearance of the turtle significant to you? Turtles come in a broad range of colors and appearances, and there’s nothing wrong with favoring one species over another simply because you believe it’s the most attractive.

Is there anything special about the turtle species (kind of turtle) that would make it difficult for you to properly care for it?

Are there any regulations prohibiting the captive breeding of specific turtle species where you live? You must first check. Not all turtles are allowed in every state. To keep turtles of natural species in some regions, for example, you’ll require a permit.

Pond Slider vs. Eastern Box

Both Pond Sliders and Eastern Box turtles make great pets, but there are a view core differences: 

Pond Sliders

The Cumberland slider and the red-eared slider are both members of the same pond slider species (Trachemys scripta). Their needs are the same, and they have a comparable appearance.

They live a long time, like most turtles. They can reach a size of 6 inches to a foot. This pond slider can live to be 60 years old. A pond slider can live for up to 40 years if properly cared for. Shrimp, insects, and commercial turtle food are among their favorite foods.

They’re easy to come by, easy to get, and easy to take care of. They also make excellent pets because they do not bite or scratch when touched. They don’t mind being handled very much for a turtle. They are unquestionably one of the world’s most popular pet turtle species.

They are, however, difficult to keep as pets and will perish if not properly cared for. Many people who aren’t particularly fond of reptiles wind up getting one since they are so easy to come by and so inexpensive. Kids who ask their parents to get them one, as well as those who simply want a pet around the house, fall into this category.

Because they live so long, many of these people grow bored of these cute turtles after a few years (or even ten years) and release them into the wild, which is illegal.

Eastern Box

The eastern box turtle is the most often kept box turtle as a pet. Eastern box turtles are box turtles that are only found in the eastern United States. Because they are not aquatic, unlike the other turtles in this article, they require a terrarium rather than an aquarium. You can also keep them outside if you make sure they can’t get out.

They are little, reaching a maximum size of about 6 inches as adults. They will eat whatever you feed them, so be careful what you feed them. Live insects, snails, and grubs are the greatest things to feed them. Feed them vegetables like romaine lettuce, dandelions, collard greens, and a variety of other veggies.

Overall, they are simple to feed and bond with, particularly during feeding time. As a result, they make terrific pets. Keep in mind that they live a long time. It has been reported that they can live to reach 100 years old. You should plan on them living for at least 40 years. This is not a long-term commitment for everyone. They are great land turtles, aside from their longevity. I recommend the eastern box turtle if you want a land turtle or tortoise.

Final Thought

Choosing which pet turtle to get comes down to personal preference. It is important to first determine what amount of time and money you are willing to spend.