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Our friend found a sun turtle hatchling in a snow storm ...
Sent to Pet Experts February 12 10:40 AM

Our friend found a sun turtle hatchling in a snow storm last night on Long Island. We set up a tank with air pump, dechlorenated water, a rock to perch on. The hatchling just floats around, paddling, and doesn't seem to know to eat. We offered it fish flakes, salamander food, duckweed, etc. What to feed it and how? Thank you!

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
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February 12 11:00 AM (20 minutes and 6 seconds later)
         
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Here are a few links to some care sheets that may help you out.

http://www.chelonia.org/Articles/chrysemyscare.htm
http://www.chelonia.org/Articles/bcwaterturtles.htm
http://www.reptileforums.com/care_sheets/turtles/painted_turtle.htm

Most turtles will experience a loss of appetite if their water is too cool(70-75F is ideal), this turtle may also be ill due to extreme temperature exposure. Stress also causes loss of appetite and it definately sounds like this little guy has been through the wringer. Having him examined by a vet wouldn't be a bad idea, as a respiratory illness could factor in.

As far as food goes:
Diet should be at least 65-85% meat consisting of commercial turtle food, trout chow, beef heart, cooked chicken, fish live or fresh caught (not frozen). Meat should be dusted once a week with a good herp vitamin containing D3.Dark green leafy vegetables can be used to fill the rest of the diet.

Many turtles will also take commercially prepared pelleted foods made for water turtles that you can buy in the pet supply.

I hope this helps. Good luck to you and the turtle!



Christina Borders
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Christina -- Veterinary Assistant -- 100% Positive Feedback on 37 Pet Accepts
10+ years as a non cert. vet tech, 15+ years experience with reptiles and small animals
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February 12 1:11 PM (2 hours and 10 minutes and 36 seconds later)
         
Reply to Christina's Post: Hi Christina. Thanks for your advice. the turtle's shell is one inch - teeny! It seems healthy. It was climbing in a little tank last night. It mostly floats or swims. i haven't seen it eat at all. It looks like a new hatchling. I researched some books and I think it is a painted turtle. i can also give a call or visit to a couple of places that exhibit small wildlife locally if need be. Thank you for your help. Donna Baleno
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
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February 12 8:01 PM (6 hours and 50 minutes and 44 seconds later)
         
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Christina -- Veterinary Assistant -- 100% Positive Feedback on 37 Pet Accepts
10+ years as a non cert. vet tech, 15+ years experience with reptiles and small animals
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