What do Alabama red-bellied turtles prefer to eat?

About the Alabama red-bellied turtles?

The Alabama red-bellied turtle (Pseudemys alabamensis) is typically a species found only in the state of Alabama. In fact, it is the official state reptile of Alabama.

Their head, neck, and legs are often marked with yellowish stripes. And as you may have guessed from the name, its belly, or plastron, tends to have a reddish hue. There may also be dark markings occasionally.

These dyes are especially intense in teenagers.

Where can Alabama red-bellied turtles be found?

Before we dive into what Alabama red-bellied turtles eat, we must first understand their habitat. Generally speaking, this turtle enjoys freshwater channels, lakes, swamps, and swamps. In general, they prefer shallower waters.

This species of tortoise was once common throughout the lower floodplain of the Mobile River system in Baldwin and Mobile counties, Alabama. Possibly, at times, as far north as south of Monroe County.

However, campsites and ATVs have all but destroyed their last known nesting sites on a large scale. Camp lights, human disturbance and high noise are believed to be causing serious reproductive problems.

What do Alabama red-bellied turtles eat?

You will discover that Alabama red-bellied tortoises tend to prefer a plant-based diet.

In nature:

This type of turtle is known as herbivores And since they are generally seen in small rivers and ponds, they have a tendency to stay with low vegetation which includes:

Aquatic plants, eels, hydrilla, pond thickets, etc.

Although, they are known to eat crayfish, insects, and small fish as well.

At home:

Although endangered, Alabama red-bellied tortoises have been seen to be made into pets for a number of reasons.

When you think about what they eat as pets, you will find that most of the same elements found in nature can be part of the diet of pet turtles. You can feed them:

Earthworms, lettuces, carrots, moss, cucumbers, tomatoes, algae, fruits, etc.

It is critical to remember that, like most aquatic turtles, Alabama red-bellied turtles do not always get 100% of the necessary nutrients in the food they eat. Because of this, it is wise to do your best to include a multivitamin supplement in your meals.

In captivity, Alabama red-bellied turtles will also readily eat many of the commercially accessible aquatic turtle foods.

That said, it is always best if you provide your pet tortoise with as varied a diet as possible to ensure good health and proper nutrition.

What should be avoided when feeding Alabama red-bellied turtles?

As with all pets, you want to make sure your Alabama red-bellied turtle is as healthy as possible. Also, you want to make sure your home is as healthy as possible at the same time.

Here are some helpful tips for balancing the two best worlds.

No fried foods: Avoid feeding your turtle any type of fatty food. No chips, donuts, onion rings, etc.

No sugary foods: No sweets, chocolate or other types of sugary foods. In addition to being unhealthy for a turtle, these types of foods tend to be tough and can pose a choking hazard for your little friend.

Without dairy products: For example milk, cheese, butter, etc. Turtles do not have the necessary enzymes to properly digest lactose.

Don’t share food: Avoid sharing food or snacks with your turtle. Many turtles, like most aquatic animals, carry the salmonella bacteria. Salmonella does not affect them like humans.

No kisses: No seriously, don’t kiss your turtle. While they are certainly cute while young or small, they are carriers of salmonella and the last thing you want is to get sick from your turtle.

No dirty hands: Whenever handling your turtle make sure to wash both hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap.