In the UK, Freshwater turtles (the kind you would keep as a pet)  are usually referred to as terrapins whilst the term turtle is used for the wild saltwater species. In order to keep things simple though. we will just use the term turtle for all types.
Turtles have a unique appearance and can make a fascinating and absorbing pet, and can certainly make an easy focus for conversation when a visitor comes to your home.
Like all animals they need some looking after, but once you have learned a little bit about them you will find that once set up in their home they are pretty undemanding.
Probably the most common type of turtle is the box turtle or tortoise. These were once brought into the UK in large numbers and left to fend for themselves in the back garden. They often did surpisingly well, foraging successfully for greenery of almost ant type they did not need any real care as such, apart from a covering of straw in the winter when they were hibernating. Often they would hibernate better if put in a coal shed or cellar.
Most turtles though, require both a dry environment and a wet environment You can though incorporate both these areas within one turtle tank provided of course it is large enough bearing in mind the size that the animal is likely to grow to.

Most types of turtle are very happy with a diet of fresh leafy greens. They are not very fussy but a variety of types of green leaves, salad leaves anf vegetables will ensure that they get plenty of vitamins and minerals. Some dark-leaved vegetables are good as they contain more nutrients.
Certain breeds of turtles will eat worms as well as greenstuff. You would be advised to find out what type of turtle you are buying of course, as they vary, not only in dietary preferences but in the size to which they will eventually grow. They are fairly slow growing but you need to be confident that you have the space for them.
Depending on the species you will be able to decide whether to have just one, as some are more solitary types, or several. If you have several, unless you want to breed them, it makes sense to have them all of the same sex.
There are about 300 species of turtles in existence so there is plenty of choice, although not every type will be generally available.

That you can train a turtle ?  Well not to sit or beg, but they can be trained to be tame to your touch and they have an inquisitive nature

Why not invest in a guide that will tell you all you need to know about how to look after a turtle, from types available, habitat preferences, health, breeding, behaviour and so much more.
A definitive book dedicated to care of turtles can be hard to find in the library or bookstore but you can get here, inexpensively delivered straight to your computer !

           JUST CLICK BELOW WHERE IT SAYS "CLICK"