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Hi Everyone!

I'm about to adopt my friends RES on Friday. I have everything set up- a 30 gallon tank, UVA lamp, UVB lamp, basking area, filter, river rocks, water heater... etc etc.

Here is the thing. My friend has had this turtle for a few years in a tank with water, and a rock. No heat or anything.

When I bring him home, should I put him in the tank with the correct heat, or should I gradually work him up? I don't want him to get sick.

Thanks!
Kate

I would set the temp at 75 or 76. Water that is too cool is more of a risk than putting him in the correct temperature water.
It sounds like you've got everything all set up for her-- what a lucky turtle!

When you go to pick up the turt, bring a thermometer with you and check the temp of the water he is in now. It will probably be too cold. You could start your tank temp at 75F-76F......
I'll bet he makes a dash for the basking ramp as soon as he sees it.

Yeah, I just got Moxie 2 weeks ago and it was the same situation, I just put her in water about 76 degrees and within about 30 seconds she was up on the basking dock, which amazed me because she's never had a basking dock or lights before.