Florida Red Bellied Turtles - Pseudemys Nelsoni - Florida Red Turtles

Pseudemys Nelsoni or the Florida Red Bellied Turtle is a cooter most commonly found in Florida and some parts of South-eastern Georgia. The Florida red turtle is found in almost all type of aquatic habitat. From spring runs, fast moving streams and rivers to shallow ponds, lagoons or even brackish water suits these medium sized turtles. However, they prefer water bodies with plenty of aquatic vegetation. They have distinctive red or orange tinge on its plastron. Hatchlings and juveniles have complete semicircular markings on their plastron. The Florida Red Bellied Turtles body is covered with yellow stripes, particularly the head and neck. Stripes begin at the snout and extend to the throat or neck giving it an arrowhead illusion. The upper jaw forms cusps around the lower jaw at the snout. The carapace is black or dark brown with reddish, orange or fiery lines and coloration all over. The Florida red turtles have a highly arched shell and the carapace length can reach up to 34 centimeters in adults. Males are distinguished by their long clawed limbs.

The Florida red bellied turtles have a spooky tendency of laying their eggs in alligators nests. Laying eggs in such a risky place has its own advantages. An alligator nest provides security against egg snatchers such as raccoons and has stable temperature and humidity. Scientists believe the high domed shells in the Florida Red turtles have evolved as protection against alligator attacks.

The Florida Red Bellied Turtles Habitat

The Florida red bellied turtles are found in the Suwanee River regions in Florida. Isolated populations of the Pseudemys Nelsoni are also found in Apalachicola and Cumberland Island in southern Georgia. The Florida red turtles are found in ponds, streams, lakes, slough, ditches, marshes, swamps and mangrove forests. Dense aquatic vegetation is a preferable habitat for these turtles. These turtles are active throughout the year and do not need to aestivate or hibernate. The Pseudemys Nelsoni is an active species and need large water tanks. A 100 gallon tank is recommended for a single adult Florida Red Turtle. For every additional turtle add another 100 gallons to it. Larger tanks provide enough swimming area and make filtration easy. The Florida Red bellied turtle is very fond of basking. In groups you can see them climb over each other to get the most of the sun. A dry basking area or ramp should be fitted into the aquarium and layered with gravels and sand. A UVB light paired with a heating lamp should be placed in the basking area. The species is very adaptable and friendly to its new keepers. Plenty of underwater fittings and fixtures are also advised for your viewing pleasure.

The Florida Red Bellied turtle Diet

The Florida red turtle is mostly herbivorous and feeds on aquatic plants and grasses. In captivity the adult Pseudemys Nelsoni would eat romaine, lettuce and other green leafy vegetables. Hatchlings and juveniles have a high protein requirement and might even eat small aquatic insects. Like all turtles kept in captivity the Florida red bellied turtle also needs additional calcium and vitamin supplements.

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