ORNATE WOOD TURTLE (Rhinoclemmys pulcherrima manni)

ORNATE WOOD TURTLE (Rhinoclemmys pulcherrima manni)

Full Description

Here’s a detailed care guide for the Ornate Wood Turtle (Rhinoclemmys pulcherrima manni), also known as the Painted Wood Turtle, a semi-terrestrial species native to Central America:

Species Overview

  • Scientific Name: Rhinoclemmys pulcherrima manni

  • Common Name: Ornate Wood Turtle

  • Origin: Central America (primarily Nicaragua, Honduras, and southern Mexico)

  • Lifespan: 30–50 years (sometimes longer with proper care)

  • Size: 6–9 inches as adults

Enclosure & Habitat

Indoor Enclosure

  • Size: Minimum 4 ft x 2 ft for one adult; larger is better.

  • Substrate: Moist soil, coconut coir, cypress mulch — deep enough for digging.

  • Humidity: 60–80% — maintain with daily misting and a humid hide.

  • Temperature:

    • Ambient: 75–85°F (24–29°C)

    • Basking: 88–92°F (31–33°C)

    • Night: No lower than 70°F (21°C)

  • Lighting:

    • UVB lighting is essential for calcium metabolism (use 10.0 UVB bulb or similar).

    • Provide 12 hours of light daily.

Outdoor Enclosure (when weather permits)

  • Secure walls, partial shade, shallow water source, hiding areas.

  • Safe from predators and escape-proof.

Water Requirements

  • Semi-aquatic — loves to soak and wade.

  • Provide a shallow water dish or pond large enough for the turtle to enter.

  • Change water daily to prevent bacterial build-up.

Diet

Omnivorous — includes greens, fruits, and protein.

Staples

  • Leafy greens: Collards, dandelion, mustard greens, kale (sparingly)

  • Vegetables: Squash, bell peppers, carrots (grated)

  • Fruits: Papaya, mango, banana, berries (occasionally)

  • Protein: Earthworms, snails, crickets, boiled eggs, cooked chicken (small amounts)

  • Commercial food: Some high-quality turtle diets (e.g., Mazuri) can be offered in moderation.

Calcium supplement: Dust food with calcium powder (with D3 if no natural sunlight) 2–3x/week.

Cleaning & Hygiene

  • Spot-clean enclosure daily.

  • Change substrate monthly or as needed.

  • Clean water dish daily.

  • Disinfect enclosure surfaces with a reptile-safe cleaner weekly.

Enrichment & Behavior

  • Curious and intelligent, enjoys exploring.

  • Provide logs, plants, rocks, and hides.

  • Soaking and digging are favorite activities.

 

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