What do turtles eat?
Quick Answer
Turtles eat a varied diet including plants, insects, fish, and commercial turtle food, depending on their species and habitat. Aquatic turtles tend to be more omnivorous, while terrestrial species are often more herbivorous. Pet turtles should receive species-appropriate commercial foods supplemented with fresh vegetables and occasional protein.
Key Takeaways
- Diet varies significantly between turtle species and habitats
- Aquatic turtles are typically omnivores (plants and animals)
- Land turtles are often herbivores but some eat insects
- Young turtles need more protein than adults
- Commercial turtle food provides balanced nutrition for pets
- Fresh vegetables and fruits can supplement pet turtle diets
- Never feed wild turtles—it can harm them and their ecosystem
Diet by Turtle Type
Aquatic Turtles (Omnivores)
Most aquatic and semi-aquatic turtles eat both plants and animals:
- Animal protein: Fish, insects, worms, snails, tadpoles, small crustaceans
- Plant matter: Aquatic vegetation, algae, fallen fruit, water plants
- Examples: Red-eared sliders, painted turtles, map turtles
Land Turtles (Mostly Herbivores)
Terrestrial species primarily eat plant material:
- Vegetation: Grasses, weeds, flowers, fruits, mushrooms
- Occasional protein: Insects, worms, snails (species-dependent)
- Examples: Box turtles, Russian tortoises, Hermann's tortoises
Sea Turtles (Specialized Diets)
Marine turtles have highly specialized feeding habits:
- Green sea turtles: Primarily seagrass and algae (adults)
- Loggerheads: Jellyfish, crabs, mollusks, fish
- Hawksbills: Sponges, anemones, small fish
- Leatherbacks: Almost exclusively jellyfish
Age-Related Diet Changes
Juvenile Turtles
- Require higher protein content for growth
- Need more frequent feeding (daily)
- Often more carnivorous than adults of same species
- Smaller food items appropriate for mouth size
Adult Turtles
- More plant matter in diet as they age
- Can go longer between meals
- Larger food items can be consumed
- Metabolism generally slower than juveniles
Feeding Pet Turtles
Commercial Foods
- Pellets: High-quality turtle pellets as base diet
- Sticks: Floating food sticks for aquatic species
- Species-specific: Choose foods formulated for your turtle type
- Age-appropriate: Different formulations for juveniles vs. adults
Fresh Foods for Pet Turtles
Safe Vegetables
- Leafy greens: Collard greens, dandelion greens, mustard greens
- Squash varieties: Yellow squash, zucchini, butternut squash
- Bell peppers (all colors)
- Carrots (in moderation)
- Green beans
Safe Fruits (Treats Only)
- Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries
- Melon: Cantaloupe, watermelon (remove seeds)
- Apples (remove seeds and core)
- Grapes (cut in half for smaller turtles)
Protein Sources (for omnivorous species)
- Feeder fish (appropriate size)
- Crickets and mealworms
- Cooked chicken or fish (no seasoning)
- Hard-boiled eggs (occasionally)
Foods to Avoid
Dangerous Foods
- Avocado: Toxic to turtles
- Chocolate: Toxic to most animals
- Iceberg lettuce: No nutritional value, can cause diarrhea
- Rhubarb: Contains toxic compounds
- Raw beans: Contain harmful lectins
Problematic Foods
- Dairy products: Turtles are lactose intolerant
- Processed foods: Bread, chips, processed meats
- High-sugar foods: Candy, sweet desserts
- Salty foods: Can cause dehydration and kidney problems
Seasonal Feeding Patterns
Spring and Summer
- Peak activity and feeding periods
- More frequent feeding required
- Wild turtles forage actively
- Abundant natural food sources available
Fall and Winter
- Reduced activity in many species
- Some species brumate (turtle hibernation)
- Decreased feeding frequency
- Indoor pet turtles maintain normal feeding
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I feed my pet turtle?
Juvenile turtles should be fed daily, while adult turtles can be fed every other day or every few days. The exact frequency depends on species, size, and age. Follow your veterinarian's recommendations.
Can turtles eat lettuce?
Avoid iceberg lettuce as it has little nutritional value. Dark leafy greens like collard greens, dandelion greens, or romaine lettuce (in moderation) are much better choices.
Is it okay to feed wild turtles?
No, you should never feed wild turtles. This can make them dependent on humans, alter their natural behavior, spread disease, and harm local ecosystems. Always observe from a distance.
Do all turtles eat the same foods?
No, turtle diets vary significantly by species. Aquatic turtles are typically omnivores, while many land species are herbivores. Sea turtles have highly specialized diets. Research your specific species.
Can turtles eat fish?
Many aquatic turtle species naturally eat fish and can be fed appropriately-sized feeder fish. However, fish should be part of a balanced diet, not the only food source.
What vegetables are best for turtles?
Dark leafy greens like collard greens, dandelion greens, and mustard greens are excellent. Squash, bell peppers, and green beans are also good choices. Variety is important for balanced nutrition.
Turtle Care and Feeding Supplies
Find quality turtle food and care products:
