Habitat - Indoor :: So I built an ATBA and my turtles won't bask.

[nocash27]

Is this normal? It's easy for them to get onto, but they haven't gone to it yet. One of them just rests on the bottom of the ramp and the other avoids it entirely.

[pickerbp22]

very normal. it could be the ramp is too steep but give it some time

[pickerbp22]

also make sure the basking area is warmer then the water

[Raphulk]

just like some people, turtles will tend to be shy from new surroundings. It shouldn't take an eternity, but I'd say a week or two at MAX for your turtle to adjust.


make sure that the basking temperature is at least 10 - 15 degrees hotter than the water temp.

if you don't already know, standard water temp should be around 75 and basking temps can get to around 90 or higher

[ch12ag]

I've literally just today finished my ATBA a VERY makeshift one and have a worry it may be too steep, I mean i know they will be able to climb it but do you think if they cant be bothered they wont attempt it, or did you mean it may be too steep as in they physically wont be able to climb it?? i hope they will bask and use it I went to a lot of effort LOL Terrance had better appreciate it lol or i may have to get my thinking cap out again hmmm

[steve]

Can they feel the warmth up there? How accessible is it... can they be lured up there by food? Is it natural looking? Do they have privacy to get accustomed to the new settings?

[res08]

Can you post a pic of your atba?

[nocash27]

Okay, it's safe. I woke up this morning and they were sleeping up there. :]

I can't find the cord for my camera to upload some pictures, but when I find it I will.

My ATBA is pretty ghetto, but it consists of plexiglass, silicon glue, that cage carpet stuff, and some legos.

[pickerbp22]

awesome !

[moldygrape]

cool ness!!!!!

[grem89]

iwould puy food On the ramp leading up to my atba when I first made mine to lure mikey up there and to see if he was ever basking when I wasnt there and it worked great.