All Turtles Message Board

glee_87 · Level 1 Joined: 03 Jan 2006 Posts: 9 Location: Hawaii

I got 2 YBS from my co-workers about 5 month ago. They were the same size when I got them. They both were eating and very active. I kept them in my office in a 10 gallon aquarium. One of the turtles is doing just fine, it's gotten alot bigger than the other one, has a good appetite, and is very active. The other turtle doesn't seem to be growing.
It does not eat and is always sleeping. Eyes are always closed even when held. Looks to be lethargic. Noticed that it is gulping for air both in and out of the water or looks like it is yawning constantly. I took them home yesterday and seperated them. I took the smaller turtle outside for some sunshine and it seemed to like it. It swam more and was awake most of the time. But once inside the house it went back to sleep. It still not eating. Maybe one or two bites and that's it. Is something wrong with it. I am getting worried. Please advise!

TIA!!!

deesygirl · Moderator Joined: 12 Sep 2002 Posts: 1232

What is your water and basking temps? Sounds like he needs a little temperature boost. Try keeping your water at 78-80 and your basking area to 84-86 and see if he starts feeling better. Also when have you replaced your UVA bulb last? They usually only last about a year and UVA is responsible for the general wellbeing of reptiles.

glee_87 · Level 1 Joined: 03 Jan 2006 Posts: 9 Location: Hawaii

I have a regular gooselamp on them at night to keep them warm.
During the day I put them outside for a couple of hours to get some sun. I also put their aquarium by the window. Is this okay?

deesygirl · Moderator Joined: 12 Sep 2002 Posts: 1232

Outside is good as long as they can get unfiltered sunlight. Glass blocks 96% of the available UVA and UVB rays and screens block out 70%. So unfiltered is important. Check the actual temperatures. You can get a little floating thermometer for around $2-3 at Wal-mart or a pet store. If they are to cold they can have problems with eating, digestion as well as immune function.

dixieee · Posted: Wed Jan 04, 2006 3:12 am Post subject:

take care of ur turtles cz there seems to be a possibility of developing respiratory problems.

good luck and keep us posted
_________________
Wed 10/27/2004 is the worst day..i lost my best friend Leo

so now i have a female RES, Green, and a cute stupid male YBS, Mint

5/4/2006 RIP Lemon, u were my first rescue and i'm so proud of u. will never 4get u

glee_87 · Level 1 Joined: 03 Jan 2006 Posts: 9 Location: Hawaii

If my turtles get enough sun during the day, do I need to keep a light on them at night? I think their water temp is about 79 degrees. Thank you so much fo your help. I hope my turtles will be okay.

TIA!!!

dixieee · Posted: Wed Jan 04, 2006 9:32 am Post subject:

the light they need to be kept at night is a heating light over the basking area. this bulb can come with no lights and gives off heat only
_________________
Wed 10/27/2004 is the worst day..i lost my best friend Leo

so now i have a female RES, Green, and a cute stupid male YBS, Mint

5/4/2006 RIP Lemon, u were my first rescue and i'm so proud of u. will never 4get u