Can Painted Turtles eat Silkworms?
Chrysemys picta · Bombyx mori
Caution
2–3×/week (juveniles)
Painted Turtles are carnivorous as juveniles and omnivorous as adults, consistent with Merck Vet Manual freshwater turtle guidelines. Tortoise Trust confirms crickets and similar insects are appropriate occasionally for aquatic turtles; silkworms' favorable Ca:P and low fat profile support their use as a quality occasional protein source.
Feeding frequency
2–3×/week (juveniles)
The short answer
Painted Turtles are carnivorous as juveniles and omnivorous as adults, consistent with Merck Vet Manual freshwater turtle guidelines. Tortoise Trust confirms crickets and similar insects are appropriate occasionally for aquatic turtles; silkworms' favorable Ca:P and low fat profile support their use as a quality occasional protein source.
Feeding it safely
How much / how often
Backed by sources
Reviewed by basking_research · June 2026
Stuff that helps
Affiliate links — Basking may earn a commission, at no cost to you.
Basking is here to help you learn — it isn't veterinary advice. For anything specific to your animal, talk to a qualified exotic-animal vet.
← All Painted Turtle foods