Eastern Long-necked Turtle 6-7cm

The Eastern Long-necked Turtle (Chelodina longicollis) is a fascinating side-necked turtle with a neck nearly as long as its shell, which it folds sideways under the edge of its shell for protection. Native to the rivers, lakes, and swamps of eastern Australia, it is an aquatic carnivore that hunts with... Read More

The Eastern Long-necked Turtle (Chelodina longicollis) is a fascinating side-necked turtle with a neck nearly as long as its shell, which it folds sideways under the edge of its shell for protection. Native to the rivers, lakes, and swamps of eastern Australia, it is an aquatic carnivore that hunts with a quick strike of its long neck. With proper care, Eastern Long-necked Turtles can live 30 years or more.

Eastern Long-necked Turtle Care Guide:

Enclosure Size:
Juveniles: Minimum 75–100 litre aquarium.
Adults: Minimum 200–300 litre aquarium, as adults usually reach 20–25 cm.
Provide swimming space, hiding spots such as driftwood, and a dry basking platform.

Water Quality:
Use a strong canister filter rated for 2–3× the tank volume.
Use dechlorinated water and change 25–50% of the water weekly.

Lighting & Temperature:
UVB: Essential. Provide a 10.0 UVB tube over the basking area for 10–12 hours a day.
Water Temperature: 22–26°C (use a submersible heater).
Basking Area: 28–30°C under a heat lamp.

Diet:
Food: Carnivorous—offer feeder fish, shrimp, earthworms, insects, and quality carnivorous turtle pellets.
Feeding Schedule:
Juveniles: Feed daily.
Adults: Feed every 2–3 days.
Supplementation: Dust food with calcium once or twice a week to support shell health.

Handling:
Eastern Long-necked Turtles are shy and may release a strong-smelling musk when handled.
Keep handling to a minimum, support the shell from both sides, and wash your hands afterwards.

Eastern Long-necked Turtles are unique, hardy, and captivating to watch as they hunt. With clean water, proper UVB lighting, and a meaty diet, they make a remarkable addition to any reptile lover’s collection.