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My red ear slider won't climb his floating log. Is he okay?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

I have a red ear slider turtle, he has been in the tank for 2 days and has not figured out how to climb up on a floating log I have for him. How much time before he is in danger?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Strydom, DVM

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 27th, 2018

I'm not exactly sure what you are asking. Is the floating log the only way she has to get out of the water? That is not recommended. You need to make an actual basking area. The entrance to the basking area should be stationary (not floating) and a gradual incline would be best.

http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Red-Eared-Slider-Care-Sheet/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLKDJEGFH7k

If you have a basking area and a log, I would not be worried that she hasn't gotten up on the log yet. Give her some more time to figure it out. If she never gets on it it doesn't matter. Some of them just don't like it. She does however need a way to get out of the water (basking area).

Hope this helps. Best wishes.
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