My aquatic turtle wontbask on his rock. i built a path to it and everthing. what should i do?

Question

everytime i put on the rock he either hisses or jumps off. is he ok? what should i do?

Answer 1

Is the basking spot under a bright, heat producing light?  If there isn't extra heat (90-110 degrees) there then the turtle has no reason to be there.  Energy efficient bulbs don't produce the heat needed.

Aquatic turtles' instincts tell them that they are in danger when they are out of the water so you need to give them a reason for why they should use the basking spots.  The entire point of basking is to raise their body temperature when they want to.

Answer 2

How long have you had this turtle, and are you just setting up this basking area for him?  Turtles are very aware of their surroundings, and if this is something new, then he's just a lil bit freaked out about it, and is staying in the water, where he feels safe.

If it's a new arrangement, with a good basking UVB light, then just give him time to get used to it, and he will crawl right on up there once he's assured himself it's not a threat to him.

Long as he's eating well, and looks healthy - I wouldn't worry about it.

Answer 3

I have had two Sliders for 36 yrs now plus a 8 yr old and a 5 yr old..

they are skiddish and do run when they see ya..

leave the light on and make sure he has plenty of fish to swim for and then get full and tired and want to nap and bask..give him time ty adjust to you..

http://flickr.com/photos/29035692@N03/27...