Reddit mentions of Red-Eared Sliders: From the Experts at Advanced Vivarium Systems (Herpetocultural Library)

First of all, do you intend to keep them? A turtle is a pet that will require a lot of care and a lot of time for many years, since most species live for very long. And they are really NOT pets for kids, expecially young kids. They carry bacterias like salmonella, which can be harmful to kids and adults alike. Playing of touching the turtle should always be done with adult supervision and make sure everybody washes their hands after! Sorry for saying this, but your friend should have known better than to give turtles to kids. They make wonderful pets, but such a decision shouldn't be taken lightly. I think people should never give any kind of pets as gifts, but that's just me. Either way, kind of a dick move.

Anyway, if you want to keep them, you're going to need to invest in a tank, or maybe even two. A small one should do for now, but they grow up fast so keep that in mind! Also, as they grow older and bigger, keeping them in the same tank might no be a good idea. They might either fight or make more turtles, and you wouldn't want that. A filter will also be necessary, as well a a uv and heat lamp and bulbs, and a water heater. The best you can do is read a much as you can about turtle care online or in books. Those look to me like Red Eared sliders, but it's hard to tell so I could be wrong. If I may suggest a book a personally really like for beginners, this one. It will tell you all about basic care for sliders, perhaps it could help more than the internet.

The first year or so is the most important for young turtles. Proper care, heat and feeding is required or they might develop problems that will stay or get worst as they grow up. I know it's a lot of information just dumped on you like this, but if you do want to keep them, it's a necessity. I've had a my turtle for three years now and I wouldn't trade him for anything in the world, but it really isn't for everyone, it's not an easy pet.

And if you don't want to keep them, try and find someone who will. Don't let them go in the wild, they will die. :c


Anyway, hope this helps! I'm no expert, but if you ever need anything, feel free to ask me, i'd be glad to help if I can. :) Good day!