Turtle not Basking?

Question

I just bought my baby red ear slider and new tank with all new stuff. His tank wasn't properly set up before, no basking light. Now he has a bigger tank, basking area with heat on it and the other light, i bought a new filter that has water pouring out the side like a waterfall. Since I bought all new stuff, he hasn't gotten out of water one time to bask. He used to get out of water all of the time before. Is he just enjoying having more room and the waterfall or what? I've been waiting on him to get out and bask. It has only been 1 day, but he used to always get out pretty often.

Answer 1

If it's only been one day then there's not much room for conern. If this prolongs, check the water temp and the land temp. The water needs to be between 70 and 75 degreese F and the water needs to be between 85 and 90 degreese F. He either isn't adjusted just yet or the temp in the water is too close to the temp on the basking area. They go to bask to warm up and if the water and land are too close, then there's no reason for them to get out of the water.

Answer 2

1. It takes some time to get used to a new habitat- often about a week before normal behaviors develop.

2. Make sure the basking site is not too hot- aim for about 90F.

Try http://www.austinsturtlepage.com for more help.

Answer 3

The new environment has frightened him a bit and he feels he is safe in the water. Give him time to adjust and he'll soon be basking and swimming whenever the spirit leads him.

Answer 4

the problem is that your're only supposed to put the basking light on only after it eats or it intenstines bake

Answer 5

he's probably just adjusting to his new setup. maybe he feels safer in the water for now. he'll come out when he needs to, don't worry! just keep an eye on him and make sure it doesn't continue for several weeks.