Re: hatchling question
Matt; If he is eating and growing, then I hesitate to say you have to change your set up. I’ve learned from all the internet lists and sites that there is not “one” right set up. You will find out what works for you. Many turtle keepers, however, do use some type of overhead heat source to create a basking spot for indoor set ups. All of my DBTs love to bask under an incandescent bulb. I also use flourescent full-spectrum tubes. I do use in-tank heaters in the winter for small hatchlings. The overhead basking light seems to be important psychologically and it also dries the shell and skin out which can help prevent skin and shell problems. The only other angle to check in your case might be the water temperature. If the heater happens to be holding the water at too warm of a temperature, I have read on other lists of problems with turtles staying out of the warm water most of the time. Generally, the daytime basking spot should offer the turtle the warmest spot in the set up. Letting things cool off a little at night is usually desirable for North American aquatics. In other words, it is ideal if there is a little temperature difference in the tank so the turtle can thermoregulate by moving around between the water and land areas. Keep us posted. Todd Matthew Vetuschi wrote: