I just got 2 res turtles but i dont got enought money for the tank/lighting system basking area. Wha do i do?

Question

I asked my friends and none of them want it.. I really like the turtles.. Is their any other way to get the lightning system? Cause after a short while of time regular water just cools down n regular lamps done create enough heat.. I wanna keep em though

Answer 1

Unless you give your turtles a basking source, they can die. However, in a pinch using a high watt fish tank heater will warm the water. If possible, keep your turtles in a window area. The more light they get from the sun may help keep them alive and more nourished than without it. There are clamped basking lights that you can get for around $20 and the bulbs are $10 for them. These can be attatched to the side of your tank as a small alternative. If your turtles stop eating or slow their swimming and eating habits; you need to get the correct system for the tank or give them to someone who can take care of them. Sorry I can't hlep you more, good luck.

Answer 2

This is a good example of why doing homework and setting up tanks first is a good idea.

I'd start with the basics, in roughly this order:
1.- Big tank, possibly a Rubbermaid-like tub to get started (they make GREAT tanks!) Aim for one that is at least 45 gallons to start with, but the bigger the better!
2.- Water heating. It is VITAL that the water temps be kept warm- 75-80F. Get a good heater(s) and maybe a guard to protect it and the turtles. Light bulbs alone WILL NOT DO IT!
3.- Basking. You can make a basking site out of plastic, wood, stone, a big (clean) ceramic pot, etc. Make sure it is both fairly smooth and easy to get traction on, and very secure. The turtle 'docks' that hang on the side are good and cheap.
4.- Basking lights. A decent heat lamp to get the basking site temp to about 90 is good. A plain light bulb will work for now, but the basking lamp is better.
5.- Care aids. Make your life easier with several thermometers, a lamp timer, a good siphon system, etc.
6.- Big expense #1, after the tank: Filter. Get the best and biggest filter you can. Try this article for ideas: http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Care/waterquality.htm
7.- General improvements. Here is the time to upgrade the heat lamp, add more heaters, etc.
8.- Add UVB lighting. This is important, but not as much as most of the other steps are, and it is rather costly- especially since a bulb only lasts about 6 months. You can get a combination heat, light, and UVB bulb if you want to save a few bucks in bulbs and energy costs.

Answer 3

Well first, I'd argue any answer that says UVB lighting isn't as important as other steps. Without UVB they will not be able to produce vitamin D3 and metabolize the calcium and phosphorus they take in for proper bone and shell growth. They will develop metabolic bone disorder ( MBD ), and grow up with shell deformities that can be painful and fatal.

If you can't afford UVB lighting, then there is nothing else to discuss, because if you can't afford that, then you surely can't aford a vet visit if they get sick...and that's what any responsible pet owner should be able to provide. It sounds like you can't even afford a basking light. They need another home which can provide these things to be fair to them. I suggest you go to Petco and find the petfinder computer system and contact some of the nearest turtle/tortoise rescue groups listed there, or ask around with the employees for potential good keepers/rescuers in the area. Petco usually has lists of local rescue/rehabbers for various animals, and your local humane society may have a volunteer listed for reptiles as well.

You may very well "like" these turtles...but if you "care", you will find a better home for them or find a way to learn what you need to learn, and provide the PROPER setup....which will cost you money.

Answer 4

A simple lamp can be found at most hardware stores. You'll need a special bulb to produce the heat & light, your local pet store should carry these. It isn't very expensive to aquire these items, probably under $20 or even under $15 for both.

Answer 5

Where did they come from? Did you buy them, because if you did way would you buy them if you couldn't care for them? If you can't afford the equipment now what are you going to do when they are full grown and need a kiddie size pool to live in? I would suggest you find a rescue to give them to.

Answer 6

put tem outside but put something around them so that they wont escape otay