Child Friendly

No, Most people think that tiny mammals or tamed animals are better choices for children as pets than Colombian sliders (Trachemys callirostris). Because of their unique care requirements and behaviour, which can not mesh well with how young children expect to be handled and interacted with, this is the main reason.

Being aquatic turtles, Colombian sliders need a large body of water with a basking area that is heated and illuminated with UVB light. The arrangement is more complex and needs regular maintenance to control the water temperature and quality, making it less suitable for simpler pets.

It is important to handle Colombian sliders with care so as not to stress them out. Turtles may be protective if they feel threatened and hate being picked up or handled too much. Some examples of this behaviour include biting or trying to escape, both of which may be dangerous for kids.

Furthermore, kids may not understand the whole scope of what it takes to keep a turtle healthy, including feeding it a varied food, cleaning up its environment, and checking on their progress. Overfeeding, water pollution, and improper temperature management are just a few of the problems that might arise while caring for a Colombian slider without the intervention of an adult.

Also, like many other reptiles, Colombian sliders may be carriers of the salmonella infection. In general, healthy turtles don't offer much of a threat as long as people follow basic hygiene procedures, but exposure to salmonella may cause serious illnesses in children, especially those under the age of 5. Because of this danger, it is essential to wash your hands thoroughly after touching the turtle or cleaning its cage.

Additionally, with the right care, a Colombian slider may live for decades. Because of their long lifespan, owning one is a big commitment; pets need a constant supply of food, water, and shelter, which may be difficult to provide when families' needs change.