Can Turtles Eat Earthworms?

earthworms in dirtYes, turtles can eat earthworms. Earthworms can be fed to turtles of all ages, but are usually reserved for adult turtles or those who are fully grown.

As with any worm product (such as nightcrawler cutlets), it is important that the source of the worms be known and trusted; given the opportunity, a turtle will eat every last one of them when given the chance! It is also wise to know what type of soil has been used by the worm farmer – some soils can contain chemicals harmful to your pet’s health. When feeding earthworms to turtles, allow no more than 10% of their daily diet to come from this source.

Types of Turtles That Can Eat Earthworms

All varieties can eat earthworms, but some will benefit more from them than others. For example, a red eared slider that is kept on a primarily plant-based diet can probably survive without supplemental protein and fat sources, but other species — especially the omnivorous basking and snapping turtles — can use all of the extra nutrition they can get!

How to Feed Your Turtle Worms

Carefully remove worms from their soil casings by hand. It is wise to wear heavy gloves (unless you’re not too OCD about your hands being covered in dirt). Be sure to select the largest worms you can find (in order to provide a high nutrient payload) and those that are free of cracks and other signs of damage. Avoid introducing worms smelling heavily of ammonia into your turtle’s enclosure, as this can indicate a need for more frequent cleaning on the part of the owner!

Earthworms can be fed to turtles in one of two ways: They can be placed directly onto land or they can be soaked in water before being added to the enclosure. If added directly, earthworms can crawl away from their intended destination – landing at the bottom of the aquarium instead of in front of your pet’s face. Soaking them first will make it easier for your turtle to get his protein fix while minimizing the need for cleanup after dining is over.

How Often Can Turtles Have Worms?

Turtles can have worms as often as they can swallow them, although some can be pickier than others. It is wise to limit the amount of earthworms in their diet to 10% of their total meal, and monitor your turtles’ weight closely (especially when feeding unmixed food items). If you notice that your turtle tends to overeat on earthworms – keep a closer watch on his bowl!

Types of Earthworm Products Safe for Your Turtle

Many are available at local pet stores or online. Common brands include Red Wigglers and Black Soldier Fly Larvae. Most can be purchased in both frozen and dried varieties. Feeding either prepared type can result in almost instant color changes associated with increased health and activity.

Earthworms can be an excellent addition to any turtle’s diet, although their nutritional benefits can also be obtained through the use of other foods (such as earthworm-enriched fish or chicken pellets). Earthworms are high in protein, calcium and vitamin A. They can help to keep your pet’s digestive tract healthy and provide a little extra energy for times when you can’t get them outside for a walk!