Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have a young central ornate terrapin who is approx 10-12mos old and 2.5". Is this a proper size for that age?

My main concern is I don't know what the proper amount of food he should be getting at this age is. I feed him Reptomin sticks once-twice a day. It seems no matter how much I feed him, he still begs for more-and he eats a lot! I don't want to under feed him, but at the same time I'd hate to overfeed him. I've checked out several terrapin care sheets and can't seem to come across an answer as to how much to feed. What would you recommend? Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

You're seeing very good growth for a diamondback at this age. You must be doing something right. Research at Stockton State College in New Jersey indicates that phenomenal growth rates can be achieved through heavy feeding. This is done so young turtles can be released without being eaten immediately by birds, etc.

You can expect to see your young terrapin slough its skin a couple of times before age two.

Diamondacks are very aggressive feeders. Feed no more than they will eat in 5 minutes, about 2 to 3 times a day. Feed live food, such as fish, guppies, goldfish in addition to Reptomin. I start them off on brine shrimp when hatchling size.

Keep water temperature around 75 F. and metabolism should be fine.