Discuss the types of foods needed to maintain reptiles in captivity
Turtles should be fed every day. All aquatic turtles are primarily carnivorous or omnivorous. In captivity,
aquatic turtles eat commercial turtle pellets, lettuce, raw fish, and worms.
Land turtles are primarily herbivorous, feeding on grasses and plants. They should be given pieces of
alfalfa, clover, or timothy hay; leafy, dark greens like kale; carrots; sweet potatoes; green beans; radishes;
strawberries; and cantaloupe. Omnivorous turtles can be fed these and offered worms; soaked, dry, low-fat
dog food; or cooked chicken in small amounts.
All snakes are carnivorous. Small snakes in captivity will readily feed on small fish, earthworms,
mealworms, crickets, and other insects. Larger snakes will feed on baby mice and rats. They may also feed
on frogs and toads, if available. The big snakes will feed on full-grown mice, rats, baby chicks, guinea pigs,
chickens, and rabbits.
If several types of food have been offered but not eaten for four weeks or more, seek advice from a consultant.
Feeding lizards in captivity is fairly easy. Most are insect eaters, and crickets, mealworms, and earthworms
are readily available. Iguanas and larger lizards will eat mealworms, earthworms, lettuce, flower blossoms,
fresh fruit, vegetables, ground meat, and dog or cat food.
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