Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I figured it would take a while for the two spotteds to settle into their new outdoor enclosure, but it's been a week and I have seen no evidence of either one getting brave. I don't think either one has basked or even attempted to get out of the water. It's actually exciting when I see one poke its head out of the water. They have both decided to make the pot the water poppy is in, their home. It is pretty funny to see them both buried down in the pot and, thankfully, it's easy to find them with those bright yellow spots. I just hope they start basking soon.

hey Curtis, congrats on the new outdoor setup. I just moved mine outside for this first time this May (a plastic molded pond). I noticed the same sort of behavior. It was probably a month before I actually saw either of them come out to bask. Mostly they just buried themselves in the substrate and occasionally popped their heads out to look around. I wonder if the adjustment from indoor lighting and constant temperatures isn't the most likely explanation. At any rate, mine have settled in very nicely and seem to come out to bask every day now (unfortunately its usually while I'm away at work). I've caught them on the weekends though!

Thanks for the encouragement. And I would love to see your setup. Your indoor one is so nice, I'm sure I would get an idea or two from your outside one. Are you planning to keep them outside for good?