Reptile & Amphibian Forums

OK, I've tried collard, mustard and kale greens. My turtles don't really like it---some nibbling, but unlike romaine lettuce, which they completely devoured. Any tips on getting them to eat the stuff that is most nutritious? Any other greens or fruits that are good for them?

By the way, my birds don't like collard, mustard or kale, either, also preferring romaine. For the same reasons romaine is not good for the turtles, it's not good for the birds, either. Any tips on them would be helpful, too!

what types of turtles? how big are they? many dont take to veggies until they are 4" or more so its no big deal as long as the rest of their diet is very nutritious.

No, they are all adult females. Should be omnivorous.

my turtle did not eat veggies until about a year into the process. I was worried about it too.

I tried all types of food, and one day my cousin offered her a piece of basil. It is still her favorite veggie, but it also got her started...

now she eats tomato, banana, cooked greens, cucumber, herbs like cilantro and basil.

try feeding it something that smells good

Banana should be avoided. Too much of it can cause problems with your turtles ability to absorb calcium.

Steve

good to know, thanks

Try Turnip greens, escarole, chicory or even dandelion greens. These may be a bit more palatable for them. Strong greens (like mustard and collared) may be putting them off. Be persistent. If they are nibbling and eating Romaine they should go for Escarole.

As far as the birds go (and I have bred parrots for over 15 years).

I would try placing whole leaves on top of the cage and letting it become a challenge for them to pull them through the bars.

From there they may start tasting them and decide they like them to eat. First make a game out of it though.

Steve