Aquatic turtles including red-eared sliders and map turtles are commonly kept pets whose complex environmental, dietary, and space requirements are frequently underestimated, leading to widespread chronic welfare problems.
Aquatic turtle welfare problems stem from a mismatch between their complex needs and common misconceptions about their care. Sold as easy, low-maintenance pets, they actually require sophisticated lighting systems, powerful filtration, large enclosures, and a varied diet. Metabolic bone disease from UVB deficiency is painful, progressive, and often fatal - yet it is entirely preventable. The very long lifespan of aquatic turtles means welfare problems can persist for decades. Many turtle owners release their pets when they become large or ill, contributing to invasive species problems. Welfare improvement requires better information at the point of sale and realistic guidance about long-term care requirements.