Turtle Habitat Costs: A Guide To Pricing And Sizing

Turtle cages can vary in price, with some of the more basic options costing around $30, and more complex or larger cages costing upwards of $100. The price of a turtle cage will depend on the size, material, and features included. For example, a simple plastic tank suitable for small turtles may be cheaper, while a larger glass aquarium with a basking platform and filtration system will be more expensive. Some companies also offer custom-built turtle cages, which will be priced according to the customer's specifications.

Turtle tank kits with accessories

Zoo Med's 40-Gallon Aquatic Turtle Starter Kit:

• Includes a 40-gallon terrarium with a sliding screen top, a basking lamp, a mini deep dome lamp fixture, a UVB fluorescent bulb, a terrarium hood, a water conditioner, an aquatic turtle food sampler, and a care booklet.
• This kit provides all the essentials for taking care of a variety of aquatic turtles and is a great option for new turtle owners.

Amazon's Small Turtle Tank Kit:

• Features a tank, light, and filter, with a basking platform and bottom drain.
• Suitable for small reptiles, crayfish, and crabs.
• Comes with a 5% off coupon and free delivery.
• Has a seller rating of 4.8/5.

Geegoods Turtle Tank:

• Includes a turtle habitat with a basking platform and multi-functional areas for turtles, crayfish, crabs, and lizards.
• Offers free delivery and has a seller rating of 4.8/5.

Clioran Aquatic Tortoise Enclosure Starter Kit:

• Features a multi-function area, hideout, UV basking platform light, water filter, fish net, drainage, and a plant.
• Suitable for turtles, reptiles, and crabs.
• Comes with a 5% off coupon and free delivery.
• Has a seller rating of 4.8/5.

BETAZOOER Turtle Tank:

• Includes an adjustable water pump filter and a full view of the tortoise aquarium habitat.
• Easy to change water and clean, making it suitable for small amphibious creatures and reptiles.
• Has a seller rating of 4.8/5.

Glass Cages Turtle Condos and Tanks:

• Offers the option to choose the size of the glass aquarium, with the addition of a basking platform and ramp.
• Provides the option to add holes, silicone, trim, dividers, ramps, screen tops, and stands.
• Glass is preferred over acrylic to prevent scratches from turtles' toes.

These kits provide a convenient way to get started with your turtle care journey, ensuring your pet has a comfortable and enriching habitat.

Custom-built turtle cages

Custom Cages

Custom Cages offers a service where you decide on the height, length, depth, and the habitat’s land-to-water ratio of your turtle's new home. They construct their units mostly with glass and wood stands that come in various colours. You can also add a filtration/backflow system, like the Seamless Sump® and Siphon Stopper®, to help with water cleanliness. Custom Cages also offer accessories such as basking platforms and ramps.

Glass Cages

Glass Cages can also create a custom turtle tank for you. They offer a range of materials, including regular float glass and low-iron glass, which provides a clearer view of colours. You can also choose to have holes drilled in the aquarium and select from clear or black silicone. They also offer a range of trim colours to hide the waterline and provide a finished edge.

Vision Products

Vision Products offer customizable turtle cages that are a one-piece moulded construction, ensuring security and durability. Their enclosures come with impact-resistant sliding glass doors and you can choose from a variety of cage sizes. Vision Products also offer stackable cages, which are ideal if you want to house multiple turtles as they prefer to have their own space.

Turtle Cage Setup Advice

Regardless of where you get your custom-built turtle cage, there are a few things to keep in mind when setting it up:

• A turtle cage should be 20 gallons per young turtle and 40 gallons for adult turtles.
• Turtles need a decent amount of water to swim in. The water should be at least twice as deep as the turtle’s length.
• Provide an area of dry land for your turtle to get out of the water and create a basking area with rocks, a slope, or a turtle dock.
• Avoid cluttering the cage with decorations as turtles tend to push items over as they move around.
• The water temperature should be 74°-78°F, while the basking spot should be between 90°-95°F.
• Use a thermometer to help track the temperature of the basking area.
• Consider changing the water at least twice a month as turtles are very messy.
• Add a water filtration system to keep the water clean.

Glass vs acrylic turtle tanks

Turtle cages vary in price, with some being as cheap as $28.99 and others costing up to $139.99. The price depends on the size, material, and features of the tank.

Now, let's compare glass and acrylic turtle tanks.

When it comes to choosing between glass and acrylic turtle tanks, there are several factors to consider. Glass tanks are generally preferred over acrylic because they do not scratch easily, and turtles' toes may cause scratch marks on acrylic surfaces. Glass tanks can also be made for almost any size aquarium. However, acrylic turtle tanks have the advantage of being lighter and more easily shipped via UPS.

In terms of durability, glass tanks are a better option as they are less prone to scratching. This is especially important if you have a larger turtle species, as they have more leverage to scratch and damage the tank. On the other hand, if you are considering a smaller turtle species, such as mud or musk turtles, an acrylic tank may be a suitable option.

Additionally, the type of turtle you plan to keep should be considered. Some turtle species, such as common musk turtles, are known to be territorial and may not do well when kept together in a tank. In such cases, a glass tank with dividers to separate the turtles may be a better option.

It's worth noting that the weight of the tank is also a significant factor, especially if you plan to custom-build your tank. Acrylic tanks are much lighter than glass, which can make them easier to work with and more suitable for larger tanks.

Finally, consider the visual appearance of the tank. Glass tanks typically provide a clearer view of the colours inside the tank, especially if you opt for low-iron glass. Acrylic tanks, on the other hand, may become scratched and cloudy over time, requiring more frequent cleaning and maintenance to maintain their appearance.

In conclusion, both glass and acrylic turtle tanks have their advantages and disadvantages. Glass tanks are more durable and provide a clearer view, but acrylic tanks are lighter and more easily shipped. The best option for you will depend on the specific needs and requirements of your turtle and your personal preferences.

Wooden vs plastic turtle cages

When it comes to choosing a turtle cage, you can opt for a wooden or plastic option. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, which we will outline below.

Wooden Turtle Cages

Wooden turtle cages offer a natural look and can be a great choice for those who want a more aesthetically pleasing option. They often come with features such as detachable legs, adjustable lamp holders, and leakproof trays. Additionally, wooden cages can provide a larger space for your turtle to move around and can be designed with multiple levels and compartments.

However, one downside to wooden cages is that they may require more maintenance and cleaning than plastic cages. The wood may also be more susceptible to damage from water or humidity, so it is important to ensure that the wooden cage is properly sealed and treated to withstand these conditions.

Plastic Turtle Cages

Plastic turtle cages are known for their durability and ease of maintenance. They are often lightweight and easy to move, making them convenient for those who may need to transport their turtle's habitat. Plastic cages are also usually very affordable, which can be a significant factor for those on a budget.

On the downside, plastic cages may not offer the same level of aesthetic appeal as wooden cages. Additionally, turtles' toes may cause scratch marks on the plastic, detracting from the overall appearance of the cage.

In conclusion, both wooden and plastic turtle cages have their advantages and disadvantages. When choosing between the two, consider factors such as aesthetics, durability, maintenance, and budget. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what will provide the best and most comfortable home for your turtle.

Indoor vs outdoor turtle cages

The cost of a turtle cage varies depending on the size, material, and features included. On Amazon, prices for turtle cages range from $28.99 to $139.99. Custom-built turtle cages are also available from companies like Custom Cages and Glass Cages, but the prices are not listed.

Now, let's discuss the advantages of indoor and outdoor turtle cages:

Indoor Turtle Cages:

• Safety: Keeping your turtle indoors is generally safer as it protects them from predators, household pets, and extreme weather conditions.
• Temperature Control: With an indoor cage, it is easier to regulate the temperature and provide a consistent heat source. This is especially important for turtles, as they are ectotherms, meaning their body temperature is regulated by their environment.
• UV Light Control: Turtles require ultraviolet (UV) light to produce vitamin D3, which aids in calcium absorption. Indoor cages allow you to provide a specific type of UV bulb to ensure your turtle's health.
• Customisability: You can customise the size, materials, filtration, and accessories of your indoor turtle cage to meet your specific needs. This includes the height, length, depth, and land-to-water ratio.
• Space: If you have limited outdoor space, an indoor cage can be a more practical option.

Outdoor Turtle Cages:

• Natural Environment: Outdoor cages provide turtles with fresh air, natural sunlight, and a more natural environment to explore.
• Space to Roam: Outdoor enclosures can offer more space for your turtle to move around and engage in natural behaviours.
• Temperature Regulation: In certain climates, an outdoor enclosure may provide a more stable and natural temperature range for your turtle, reducing the need for artificial heating or cooling.
• Access to Natural Food Sources: In an outdoor enclosure, turtles can forage for their own food, such as insects, plants, and small animals.
• Ease of Cleaning: Outdoor enclosures may be easier to clean due to their larger size and accessibility.

In conclusion, the decision to choose an indoor or outdoor turtle cage depends on various factors, including your climate, available space, and the species of turtle you own. Both options have their advantages, and it is essential to prioritise the health and safety of your turtle by providing a suitable and secure environment.

Frequently asked questions