-
Set up a large tank holding 20 gallons or more of water to hold hatchlings for up to two years. A proper tank should have a dry sandy area for turtles to bask in to warm themselves.
-
Keep a UV fluorescent light or reptile heat lamp on in the tank to keep the turtles healthy. Reptiles need warmth from light for energy.
-
Move turtles to a larger enclosure when they reach 8 inches long. Large outdoor ponds and tanks are suitable for holding adult snapping turtles.
-
Feed snapping turtles a mixture of meat such as fish, turkey and chicken. Commercial turtle pellets and plant material including lettuce and mustard greens can be used to round out the animal's diet. Feed the turtles only high-quality ingredients to produce a higher quality meat. Serve food in small pieces because turtles have been known to choke to death on large chunks of food.
-
Clean the enclosures regularly to promote healthy turtles and quality meat for your future customers.