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Post by hansickle on Nov 9, 2011 20:03:48 GMT
Hi, I am looking to buy a turtle, I have read up on looking after them and have all the set up for one. However I was just wondering what the best breed is for a first time owner? I have seen that Red Eared Sliders are good, but I cannot seem to find many for sale. I have seen lots of yellow bellied sliders for sale, could someone let me know what these are like and if they are good for a first timer? Can someone recommend what other breeds might be a good starter? Also if there are any breeders on here that are selling red eared sliders, please let me know  Would be grateful for any help Hannah |
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Post by jacquisunderland on Nov 9, 2011 20:45:41 GMT
Hiya Hannah.. big welcome to Turtle Rescue.. always great to hear from new members..
like everything else, the actual breed of turtle you prefer is purely personal preference but a big factor is usually space and the size of tank you have. Red ears and yellow bellys are real characters, are fun to watch their daily antics but once fully grown will need a tank at least 4ft long,preferably bigger.
Where abouts in the country do you live because I'm sure their will be someone who probably needs to rehome theirturtle near you. If you are in the north I can help you there otherwise have you tried the freeads and gumtree? x
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Post by turtlegirl on Nov 10, 2011 0:01:50 GMT
Yellow bellies and red ears are subspecies of the same turtle. Many UK sliders are in fact hybrids like most of mine and have some red ear ancestry. Red ears were the first turtles to be imported from US in large numbers though they became rare as a result and are now semi protected with restrictions on export.
If you live in Essex, Wayne at Turtle Rescue has some lovely healthy turtles in need of good homes.Contact him for details.
Otherwise there are always sliders looking for new homes every week on Gumtree, Preloved and Craig's List, mainly young adults. You can get good bargains as owners often sell cheap package deals with tank and equipment too just to get rid of the poor turtles. Inspect any turtle on offer carefully as many have been neglected and are in poor health. You can sometimes bargain down the price if owners want to be rid of unhealthy turtles ASAP and put the money towards vet bills and good food. Adopting unwanted turtles is very rewarding. You will be amazed what a difference good food, clean water and care can make to a previously neglected turtle after a few months
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Post by hansickle on Nov 12, 2011 0:11:06 GMT
Hi,
Thanks for all the info, been very helpful. Also Jacqui l am looking for a turtle in the Leeds area, would you be able to help with that, or are you talking further north than that?
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