Hi, I have had my RES for about 7 years. He has always been in a large tank in my house, but since he is getting larger i wanted to give him a more natural environment, so I built him an outdoor enclosure. The enclosure has a small pond, some grass, and a large flagstone for basking, and it is covered with rabbit wire to keep predators out. I placed it in a location where the sun will hit him about 4 hours a day or so. I live in Texas and the summers are hot and didnt want his water to boil.
I put him in the habitat on Sunday. I have only seen him come out once and walk around the grass.
I originally had a few bricks in the water to help him climb out since he wasn't able to at first. But then I got worried that when he jumps in, his shell will get hurt on the corner of the bricks. So i build him a little ramp made from the floating dock he had in his tank. but he has yet to use it.
I am worried that he is not happy in this new habitat. so I had a few questions...
Hoe long can they do without basking?
I am considering putting the bricks back, does anyone know if he does hit his shell on the corners will that injure him?
Could it be possible that he is not happy, or maybe is he really taking this long to get adjusted to being outside?
Any advice greatly appreciated!