Urgent Care :: Tuck and Larri... HELP!

[stylinsondestiel]

Okay,
So I have two RES turtles.
I've had Tuck (male) for 3 or 4 years, and I just got Larri (I believe he is also a male) last year over the summer. They are about the same size, so I figure they are about the same age.
I have had issues with their tank in the past because I'm allergic to them (I'm allergic to so many things ), but my dad always takes their tank out and cleans it really nice.
The problem is that Tuck's red "ears" are a light orange color at the top of his head, and they are turning white as they reach towards the base of his neck. Larri seems fine, but both of their skin on their arms and legs seem to be shedding. I honestly have no clue what is wrong with my baby, please help. I'm so worried that something is wrong with him

Also, they always dig into the rocks and stick their head in the hole they made. It seems like they are digging for something? Do you know why they are doing this?

How big is your turtle? A little bit bigger than half of the size of an American Dollar Bill.
How long have you had it? Tuck (3-4 years), Larri (about 1 year)

What is the water temperature? Room temperature.
Did you use a thermometer? No.
Are you using a water heater? No, but their water seems to be at a fine temperature.
How much water is in there? 1/4 of their tank.
Are you using a water conditioner? No.
Are you using any filtration? Yes, an Aqua-Tech Power Filter.

What is the basking temperature? Room temperature.
Is there a basking light? No.
Is there a basking platform that is easy to climb on? Yes.
What kind is it or what is it made out of? It is made of a rock type substance.
Is there a UVB light?- No.

What have you been trying to feed it? Wardley Reptile Sticks.
When was the last time your turtle ate? About 30 minutes ago.

How big is the tank/pond/enclosure? 10-15 gallons.
Is the tank near a window? About 12 foot away on the opposite side of the room.
Is the tank in a room with a lot of activity? Yes, they are in my bedroom. I sing to them quite often and they stick their heads out of the water when they hear me.

Have you read the Basic Care section? Yes.
Have you searched the forums for similar situations? Yes.

Is there any other unusual activity/symptoms? Yes, when they dig into their gravel and pop their head back up, they look like they're eating something. Is it safe to assume that they are eating the gravel?

[steve]

What kind of dermatitis do you have with you turtles?

Your turtles sound like they need a serious overhaul in their environment. Some of the behavioral issues could be related to that, but perhaps some pictures could allow me to offer some more informed advice.

[Kansasslider]

I agree with Steve. Personally I think, Tank is too small, you need a basking and uvb light, you need to know the temps(thermometer) etc.

[stylinsondestiel]

What kind of dermatitis do you have with you turtles?

Your turtles sound like they need a serious overhaul in their environment. Some of the behavioral issues could be related to that, but perhaps some pictures could allow me to offer some more informed advice.

I'm not quite sure what it is, but every time I touch them I have an allergic reaction. And he's looking a lot better, but his head is still slightly white. Do you still want pictures?

[stylinsondestiel]

I agree with Steve. Personally I think, Tank is too small, you need a basking and uvb light, you need to know the temps(thermometer) etc.

I'm actually looking into where I can find a bigger tank! I'm going to check at Wal-Mart tomorrow and if they have one, I'll buy it. I will work on getting the lights, and I bought a thermometer the other day. The temperature is about 79 degrees F.

[steve]

So it's with direct contact with them and not their water? Or does that bother you as well, but on a different level?

[stylinsondestiel]

So it's with direct contact with them and not their water? Or does that bother you as well, but on a different level?

I believe it is their tank/water/environment.
Also, very recently I have saw them swimming nose to nose in the water. I believe that is called the mate dance? I was confused because I thought they were both boys...

[steve]

Males and females can flutter. It can be part of a mating ritual but part of aggression. If they are males, then you are looking at some potential problems.

[Teeglor]

^ what they said!

You need a bigger tank. They need a lot of room to get proper exercise and feel stimulated. Do you have a "used item" site you can go on? That's where I found my two 40gallons for a good price.

Two tanks would be preferable, as your males seem to be showing aggression. Males are very territorial with other males. They can start fighting and their sharp claws and beaks can cause serious damage.

UV and basking lights are beneficial for turtles health. You can buy them separate or as a duel bulb. Big name pet stores with definitely have them - hopefully you have access to one. You can also purchase online. The duals are expensive but last a long time. $60-$80 here, depending on the store and watts and size.

Change up the diet a bit too. Calcium in the form of supplements or cuttlefish bones is great, and they need vitamins from fresh vegetables. Pellets, gelatin products and protein or live foods are good, but mostly veggies.

Chlorine can irritate them, especially the eyes, so you may want to start using a water conditioner.

It may seem daunting, but it will be worth it for the turtles! Hopefully you see improvements after those changes.

I need to make improvements too. I need to get better filters, and I want a really nice basking add on instead of a ramp and an island, and I am working on improving their diet as well.

I'm sorry you're allergic to them. I'm allergic to cats. It sucks because I adore cats (lol).