How long do Mud Turtles live?
Mud turtles live 20-30 years and reach 3-5 inches (8-13 cm) shell length, weighing 0.2-0.5 kg.
What do Mud Turtles eat?
They are omnivores leaning carnivorous: pellets, insects, worms, small fish, crustaceans, and some aquatic plants. Feed adults every other day to 3 times weekly; dust with calcium. Avoid all-meat-only diets (kidney issues) and provide plant matter.
Mud Turtle enclosure setup
A single adult needs a 20-40 gallon setup that is roughly half shallow water (heated 72-78°F / 22-26°C) and half dry land with a basking lamp to 85°F (29°C). Strong UVB over the land area is required, and ambient 76-80°F (24-27°C). Provide a secure lid; they can climb and escape. Good filtration for the water section.
Common mistakes with Mud Turtles
Key errors: too-dry setup with no water (dehydration), all-meat diet (kidney disease), no UVB (metabolic bone disease), and too small an enclosure for an active turtle.
Beginner mistakes to avoid
- Too dry / no water — dehydration.
- All-meat diet — kidney disease.
- No UVB — metabolic bone disease.
- Enclosure too small — they are active.