Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi Everyone,
I have 2 female RES about 5 years old and they both seem to enjoy basking. Lately I have been noticing that one of them basks all day. From the time I put the lights on in the morning, until later on at night when I shut the lights off she is on the ramp. I literally have to push her into the water at night so she is not on the platform. My feeling is maybe the water is too chilly? The only thing with that is I have a heater in the tank set to about 75 degrees, do you think that is too cold? I have never had this problem before, and the other turtle basks on and off all day, so I am not sure if the basking turtle is ill? She is eating and seems alert.

Any advice would be great! Thanks so much!
Jodi
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Keep Smiling! ~Jodi
I don't have a very long list but...
2 RES- Scar and Snoozy
1 Maltese- Shea (Let's Go Mets)

Turtles usually bask a lot when they're sick. But if they show no symptoms, I think you are right about the water being cold. What is the temperature?

Otherwise, don't worry because the turtle probably climbed down when you weren't watching.

75 degrees is certainly NOT too cold a water temperature.

If the turtle is seems to gape or gasp for air or swim lopsided or even be buoyant when she swims there could very well be a respiratory problem. If she is eating and behaving normally otherwise I would just keep an eye on her.

Steve

Well depends what your turtles are used to. RES's from a more tropical area would probably prefer 82ish.

Thanks so much for your advice everyone, I will keep an eye on her. She seems to be normal in all other areas (IE swimming, eating, breathing). I have had my RES for about 5 years now and left the water to 75 degrees without a problem, so I think they are used to that temperature... If the problem worsens I will take her to a vet.
Thank you again!
-----
Keep Smiling! ~Jodi
I don't have a very long list but...
2 RES- Scar and Snoozy
1 Maltese- Shea (Let's Go Mets)

No Problem! Good Luck!