African Sideneck Turtles As Pets

Its unique appearance, most notably its perpetual smile, gives it a charming and expressive look. The charm of the African sideneck turtle extends beyond its appearance. The African sideneck is named for the way it pulls its head under its shell sideways, rather than straight back as most turtles do.

With proper care, these aquatic turtles are able to live several decades. They make a great companion for long-term owners. They do require a specific habitat, as well as a certain amount of care, such as access to warm, clean water, a place to bask, and a healthy diet. However, they are suitable for beginners willing to put in the time and effort. They are entertaining to watch because of their active personality and curiosity, particularly when they feed or explore their environment.

African sidenecks can adapt and are resilient, even though they require a lot of care. Even novice turtle keepers who pay attention to tank cleanliness, diet and temperature regulation can create a safe and healthy environment for this fascinating species. They are a great choice for those who want to get into the aquatic turtle world because of their unique appearance, engaging behaviours, and long life expectancy.

How To Take Care Of African Sideneck Turtles

Some African sideneck turtle species are endangered and shouldn’t be taken out of the wild. If you’ve rescued a turtle or legally obtained one from a breeder or shelter you trust, you will need to provide an environment that supports its health and wellbeing. The semi-aquatic species have specific needs, and therefore, the habitat must be suitable.

Setting up African Sideneck Turtles Habitat

Tank requirements

African Sideneck Turtles are aquatic and need a large aquarium to accommodate their active swimming behaviour. One adult turtle should have a minimum 75-gallon aquarium. The tank must be at least half-filled with water to allow the turtle to turn and dive freely. The setup should also include a dry area for basking, such as a floating dock or rock platform. This allows the turtle to emerge fully from the water and soak up heat.

A clean water supply is essential for turtle health. A high-quality filter system is required to maintain water quality because sidenecks defecate into the water. A weekly water change (at least 25%) is also necessary to prevent ammonia accumulation and shell or skin infection.

Temperature

The turtles are ectothermic. This means that they depend on external heat sources to regulate their body temperatures. The temperature of the tank should remain around 80°F. (27degC) while the area for basking should be around 90degF. (32 °C). Heat lamps placed above the basking area will provide warmth. Monitor temperatures with a thermostat and make sure they don’t drop too much, especially during the night.

Lighting requirements

The UVB light is essential for African sideneck Turtles. Use a UVB lamp on a 12-hour cycle of light/dark to simulate natural sunlight. UVB exposure is essential for the turtle to synthesise Vitamin D3, required for calcium absorption and shell growth. Turtles can suffer from metabolic bone disease, among other health problems.

Diet and Feeding of African Sideneck Turtles

African Sideneck Turtles are omnivores like most aquatic turtles. This means they eat animal protein as well as plant matter. In the wild, they eat small fish, insects and crustaceans as well as aquatic plants and algae. To keep them healthy, it is important to feed them a balanced and varied diet. Commercial aquatic turtles are a good choice. They contain essential nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D3 that support healthy shell and bone growth.

You can add fresh food to pellets to enrich their diet and encourage natural feeding. Protein sources that are suitable include earthworms and crickets. Also, freeze-dried shrimp, feeder fish, and earthworms. Also, aquatic plants and vegetables are important. Offer dark greens like collards, dandelion, and romaine, as well as floating plants such a duckweed and water lettuce. You should avoid processed foods and anything that is high in sugar, salt, or fat.

When possible, feed your turtle in an additional container. This will help minimise waste accumulation in the main tank. You can also monitor how much food it is eating. Due to their growing needs, juvenile sideneck turtles need daily feedings. Adults usually only require feedings every 2 or 3 days. To maintain a clean environment and healthy water, remove any uneaten food as soon as possible. With the right diet and care, your African sideneck can live a long and healthy life.

What does an African Sideneck turtle look like?

African Sideneck Turtles are striking reptiles, with their relatively flat dark green or brown shells. They also have a greyish underbelly with black accents. The colouration of the turtles is effective in hiding them in the wild. This is especially true in murky, plant-filled water environments.

Their seemingly constant grin is perhaps the most recognisable and charming feature of these turtles. The natural smile gives the turtle a cute, approachable appearance. Many owners are caught smiling at their turtles unknowingly!

Their olive-green head is often decorated with mottled black markings, which adds to their distinctive appearance. Their chins are covered with two sensory barbels that help them detect food and movement in the water. African sideneck turtles also have long, curved claws that help them climb over rocks, driftwood and basking platforms. They are not only interesting to watch, but they also have physical characteristics that make them well-suited to swimming and exploring the environment.

African Sideneck Turtles’ Behaviour

African side-neck turtles are known for their unique anatomy, particularly their long, flexible necks, which distinguish them from other turtle species. They cannot retract their heads fully into their shells like many other turtles. They bend their necks under their shell sideways for protection. Hence their name. The anatomical feature gives them not only a quirky appeal, but also a practical advantage: they can flip themselves onto their backs and use their powerful neck muscles to correct themselves. This ability can be lifesaving in the wild as well as in captivity.

The turtles are curious and sociable, which makes them interesting pets. They can be accustomed to humans with gentle, consistent interaction. They may even start to recognise human presence and feeding times. They aren’t usually cuddly and don’t like to be handled. However, their active nature makes them a wonderful species to have in a well-maintained aquatic habitat.

Keeping your African Sideneck Turtle healthy 

It’s not only possible to care for an African sideneck, but it is also extremely rewarding. The right combination of warmth, nutrition and a clean environment is essential for these charming turtles to thrive. Once their basic requirements are met, these turtles are low-maintenance, hardy companions who are fascinating to watch.

One of the best parts of owning a pet is feeding your side-neck turtle. Roaches are their favourite food. These roaches contain essential nutrients and proteins that help your turtle grow and maintain energy. Your turtle will be active and alert with a healthy diet and a well-maintained aquarium.

The African Sideneck Turtle is a great pet if you want a unique reptile to bring joy, curiosity and a little bit of the wild inside your home.