Painted Turtles are one of the most common species of turtle kept as pets. They have amazing colors and they are relatively easy to care for. They are native to the United States and are very popular as pets. The painted turtle is a hardy species and with the proper care can live for decades.

Baby painteds start off small but can grow to 12 inches or more by the time they're an adult. Keep that in mind if you've yet to buy one. They need plenty of room as an adult and can become cramped in a tank that's not big enough. I recommend keeping one turtle at first just in case keeping a turtle isn't for you. It's a big commitment and should be throroughly researched by a potential first time keeper.

Tank

Painted Turtles prefer the water temperature to be in the low 70's and a basking area in the 80 to 90 degree range. This will give them the optimal "sun light" and the water temperature they need to maintain a healthy existence. Adding decoration or plastic floating plants to your tank is fine, but be sure not to clutter their area. They need plenty of room to swim and play if you want a healthy and happy terrapin.

Water quality is very important and needs to be maintained. Keeping it clean of turtle poop and uneaten food is required to keep the water top quality. Good quality water filters are a must and should be changed regularly. Water changes at regular intervals are imperative to your turtles health. Not only do they live in the water, they eat out of it. Over time dirty water will make your painted sick.

Diet

Wild Painted Turtles eat a variety of things. Insects, crustaceans and fish are just a few of the things they eat in the wild. I give my Eastern Painted minnows and crickets as treats. Make sure to scoop out anything not eaten so the water does not become dirty. Pet painteds should be kept on a regular floating stick diet. These sticks are nutritious and will provide your painted with all the vitamins and minerals they will need to maintain a healthy diet. They are also very easy to portion and will allow you to know exactly how much your terrapin is eating each day.

Feed your turtles floating sticks twice a day. Supplementing fruits, fish or insects is fine. Putting just enough food in the tank for them to eat in several minutes. If there is uneaten food after several minutes, you are feeding your Painted too much and the uneaten food should be removed.