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Hey all!

I've had my RES (Hatchling) for a little over a week! He/she is doing great so far! *cross fingers it stays that way* But I was told by a reliable source, who used to work with the reptiles at the zoo, that a heater was not necessary and that the basking lamp would heat the water! So far- the water is maintaining at a steady 80 degrees- I just wanted some of your opinions!

Thanks!!

It depends on where you live, however I always recommend a water heater. If air temps in your area drop below 75F, then I would strongly recommend getting one. A basking heater or sunlight is not a reliable or dependable way to moderate and maintain water temperatures.

How big is the tank he's in? The basking lamp will warm the water somewhat in small tanks (does your turtle have a UVB light as well?). If the temp fluctuates and/or drops significantly at night where you are, however, it would be good to have a submersible water in the tank to keep the water temp constant, especially for a hatchling. (Remember, the lights should be off at night.)

hmmm, think about it. The coldest time would be at night time and you don't have the lamp on to heat the water at night time, so in my opinion you should get a water heater if you can fit it into your tank (you didn't tell us your tank size).

CrossKnight- I had a 20 gallon with a water heater for awhile and just recently I upgraded to a 75 gallon with a water heater for tanks 50-80 gallons! Dont worry- I'm trying to be the best turtle mama i can be!

Cool, I'm glad to hear that ^_^ Post some pictures for us once in awhile too. I'd love to see your baby!!

If you check out the photo gallery my most recent post is of Leo in his new 75 gallon tank- I believe it's titled "Leo's New 75 Gallon Home" or something like that!