Terrapins are mostly meat eaters. Diamondback terrapins, the best-known wild terrapin, eat snails, crabs, clams, mussels, worms, small fish and insects. In some countries “terrapin” is also used for pet freshwater turtles, which eat a broader mix of pellets, greens and protein.
Two Meanings of “Terrapin”
- Diamondback terrapins (North America): live in salty and brackish marshes along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. They are protected in many areas and are not suitable for casual pet keeping.
- Pet terrapins (UK and elsewhere): usually red-eared sliders or similar freshwater turtles. See our guides to feeding sliders.
What Diamondback Terrapins Eat in the Wild
They forage in tidal marshes for periwinkle snails, small crabs, clams, marine worms, fish and insects. Strong jaws crush shells. Their wild diet is why they should never be fed freshwater-only pet foods as a long-term plan.
Feeding a Pet Freshwater Terrapin
- Staple turtle pellets, about half the diet for young animals.
- Protein: earthworms, bloodworms, crickets, snails and shrimp.
- Greens: dandelion, collards, romaine and floating plants.
- Feed hatchlings daily and adults every two to three days, removing leftovers after 30 minutes.
Avoid
- Bread, cheese and processed meats.
- Collecting or feeding wild terrapins. They are legally protected in many places.
Bottom Line
Wild diamondback terrapins eat marsh invertebrates and fish; pet terrapins need a balanced pellet-based diet with UVB and a basking area. Compare with river turtle diets.
General information, not veterinary advice.
