General Care Discussion :: RES Not Basking

[molly100a]

I purchased by RES about 2 weeks ago, he is at least 4 inches. My problem is I don't think he is basking. My water temp is 75 - 78 degrees, basking temp is at 90 degrees. I do water changes once a week. There are fake reptile vines around the basking slate and down into the water with a drift wood ramp. He eats and appears to be very active and healthy. I even placed a cork bark boarder around the basking area for privacy. The mbasking slate is warm to the touch and not too hot. Any advice is greatly appreciated.

[Listen97]

Turtles are shy and he may not bask when you are around. Also my suggestion I always give is can he climb the ramp. Try putting him on the ramp and see if he can climb a bit too steep an angle might hinder. Also put him on the basking area so it gets the understanding its warm and a place to bask. I've heard others put a small piece of food on the platform and check to see if the turtle takes it back into the water to eat. If you have a webcam you can setup a motion sensor to see if he uses it when your not around.

[molly100a]

Thanks for the input, the drift wood ramp is at a good angle for him to climb. I've tried putting him on the slate and he bolts for the water. I will try the food, thats a good idea.

[molly100a]

Wow did that work. Last night I pul food up on the platform and left the basking light on with the uvb turned off. He went up several times for the food and this morning was basking. Thanks so much:):)

[steve]

Good to hear! You can up the basking temp a little so he can feel the warmth a bit more.