Reptile & Amphibian Forums

New to this site. Really needed all the info I've read. I also have a new hatchling. A cutie the size of a quarter. He suprized me by showing up late winter swimming in the water in the large pen outside. Had him inside for a few weeks now but I don't think he's eating. Tried meal worms, red worms, pill bugs and snails. He seems healthy. Just shows no interest in the food.

I've noticed with my adults when they are indoors that they will learn to eat in certain places, but if I try to feed them away from those places they won't eat. They are creatures of habit and don't seem comfortable when routine is changed.
When I feed mine live food, I give it to them in the bathtub after they've had their baths. (this is done one at a time because they don't like to bathe or eat together.)
The food can't climb out of the tub, this way I can see if they've eaten or not.
They eat their non live food in the utility room where it's private, they don't like to be watched.
Outdoors is a different story, they'll eat anywhere.

If you aren't sure whether or not the baby is eating try giving it food in a controlled space that's safe then give it some privacy for half an hour or so. I often feed my aquatic turtles live foods in the small holding tank I use on cleaning days. The space is so limited that the food can't get away from them.

I'm sure others here will have some suggestions for you.
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PHRatz

There could be several reasons for this. Your temperature could be too low...as your humidity. I can't remember or not if you mentioned the species you have, but they all have their preferences. The most common thing that I've found, though, is how you present the food. Some babies will eagerly take food from your fingers. Sometimes certain species more than others. But, most are rather shy at first. They like to eat where they feel secure and secluded. Also, the food has to pique their interest. It is quite possible that if you found this baby just this spring, it may have overwintered in the nest. It may just not be ready to eat yet. Keep it 75-80 degrees and well hydrated. My failsafe is to offer picky feeders cut up earthworms in VERY shallow water. I cut them up mainly because they'll crawl up the sides of the container, but leave them large enough to crawl around and look yummy. This year, for the first time, I got a few reluctant feeders to start on Phoenix worms...they love these little things! Try to trick the turtle into thinking that you're not around when offering food. If it's not fooled, just leave for about an hour. If your turtle doesn't eat soon, you should find a good herp vet. Just make sure they have herp experience. Sometimes, you may find that the Vet techs not only know more about herps, but they're very willing to answer husbandry questions over the phone. Good luck! I think most of us have been in your shoes at one point, or hundreds of points!