Here’s a sobering fact: terrapins are one of the top 10 most surrendered pets at UK reptile rescues. Nearly three-quarters of these surrenders happen within the first five years. Why? Because that adorable, tiny hatchling you fell in love with at the pet shop grows into something entirely different than what most people expect.

Let me be honest with you – about 85% of people buy terrapins on impulse, charmed by those cute little faces. But fewer than 30% actually research what caring for an adult terrapin involves. That’s a recipe for heartbreak (and an expensive one at that).

Are Terrapins Good Pets? A Reality Check on What You’re Getting Into

Here’s a chilling statistic: Terrapins are among the top 10 reptile pets surrendered at reptile rescues in the UK. Almost three-quarters of these surrender within five years. Why? Well no — because you see, that cute little miniaturiser whose hatchling you fell for in the pet store doesn’t actually grow into what most people think.

Let’s face it – the terrapin selling business is based on impulse buying – something like 85% of people are charmed by the cute little faces that are looking up at them. But less than 30% do any actual research into what caring for an adult terrapin entails. That is a recipe for heartbreak (and, usually, an expensive one).