My baby golden thread turtle sleeps on land and basks. Is this normal?

Hi there! Let me see if I can help you with Michelangelo. I read through this article from Reptile Magazine, and it seems to have some good advice on husbandry and diet of the species: http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Turtles-Tortoises/Turtle-Care/Golden-Thread-Turtle-Care-Tips/ I also really like Austin's Turlte Page for information about turtle husbandry: http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Care/cs-chinesegoldenthread.htm In addition, I would recommend you do try to encourage Michelangelo to bask, whether it be outside in the sun, or under a UVB bulb lamp (monitored of course). It is important for his metabolism to have the UVB lighting. I hope you find this answer helpful. Best of luck!

Thanks for reaching out about Michaelangelo. Depth of the water is not that important as long as there is a haul-out area, with radiant heat (and UVB). Ensure haul-out area is used and the turtles are able to access. (might need a ramp). The larger the water volume, the more stable the conditions. Good luck.

Turtles will bask in a variety of positions to maximize heat and UVB absorption. If she is behaving normally otherwise, there is likely no cause for concern. Monitor for lethargy, difficulty breathing, "gaping" (opening and closing mouth), blowing bubbles or discharge from the nose or mouth, decreased appetite or lopsided swimming. See your veterinarian or an experienced herp veterinarian if any of these symptoms develop.

Blandings are semi aquatic and will spend significant amounts of time basking or out of the water. As long as she is eating regularly and behaving normally otherwise, there is likely no cause for concern.

This could be very normal for him as long as he is still eating normally! If he isn’t eating then I would have your vet look at him. You may consider making his basking platform a little bigger if you’re concerned he is having trouble staying on it. I hope this helps! Red eared slider have great little personalities!

Thanks for reaching out about Sebastian and including pictures. Points of interest to investigate would be: (1) heat support in the water, (2) nutrition, and (3) water quality. If the water temperature gets too low, turtles will slow and stop eating (acting as if hibernating). The water quality needs to be kept clean to decrease bacterial and algal overgrowth. Regarding nutrition, the package of pellets needs to be changed every 3-4 months as vitamins degrade quickly. Offering diced vegetables and whole fish (goldfish, tetras) can provide exercise and nutrition. If Sebastian remains quiet and lethargic, a visit to a reptilian veterinarian is recommended. Good luck.

Hi, That's difficult to say without seeing Donatello. However, if the temperature of his tank is above 68F then he should not be hibernating. You can try warming the water to about 80C and see if it helps. Regards