What do painted turtles need in their cages?

Painted turtles require the following in their cages or enclosures:

Water: Painted turtles are aquatic reptiles and require access to water for swimming and drinking. The water should be clean, dechlorinated, and kept at a temperature between 75-85°F.

Land area: Painted turtles also need access to a land area for basking and laying eggs. The land area should be made of smooth rocks, slate, or other non-porous materials to help prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.

Hiding spots: Painted turtles need hiding places to feel secure. These can include caves, rocks, or commercial turtle hides.

Light source: Painted turtles require a heat lamp and a UVB light to provide the necessary warmth and ultraviolet B radiation for proper growth and metabolism.

Food and water dishes: The cage or enclosure should provide shallow water and food dishes. The water dish should be large enough for the turtle to soak its entire body, and the food dish should be shallow enough to prevent the turtle from spilling its food.

Substrate: The substrate in a painted turtle cage should be a natural material such as sand, gravel, or a mixture of both. The substrate should be deep enough to allow the turtle to burrow and should be kept clean and free of debris.

Temperature gradient: Painted turtles need a temperature gradient within their enclosure so they can regulate their body temperature. The temperature on one end of the enclosure should be warmer than the temperature on the other end, allowing the turtle to choose the temperature it prefers.