General Care Discussion :: I hope you can help

[Ronda Gale]

I was given 2 RES. I have taken them from a very small home to a very large tank with a double pump/filter system. They have a basking area, large creek rocks, heat lamp, heater and plants. I am amazed how much they love their new home. My question is that over the past few days I have noticed them practicly nose to nose and using their front arms in a pushing motion. Does anyone know what they are doing? I have no idea what sex they are or how old they are.

[missibsu]

Fluttering of the paws can be a territorial issue or a mating sign. You can tell the gender of your turtles if they are over four inches in shell length. Males will have thick long tails and long front claws. Females, shorter nails and tails. If you still have problems, you can post pics and we can help identify gender.

Do you know how many gallons your tank holds? Rule of thumb is 10 gallons per inch. If your turtles have adequate space, I'm guessing it isn't territorial...especially since you just upgraded.

You didn't mention, but do you have a UVB light as well as a heat light?

[marisa]

If you have an adequate-size tank for the both of them, it could just be something that they do (call it practice). Young turtles do do this to each other. Just keep an eye out for overt signs of bullying/aggression.