Why is my turtle gasping?

Turtles with respiratory infections may have excess mucus in their mouths (seen as bubbles in the mouth, nose, and eyes), nasal discharge, lethargy, loss of appetite, wheezing, extension of the neck to breathe, and open-mouth breathing or gasping.

What should the water temperature be in a red ear slider turtle tank?

The water in a red-eared slider turtle tank should be kept at about 74-78 degrees Fahrenheit, and up to 80 F for hatchlings.

Why are red eared slider turtles bad for the environment?

Because red-eared slider turtles eat plants as well as animals, they could also have a negative impact on a range of native aquatic species, including rare frogs. Also, a significant risk exists that red-eared slider turtles can transfer diseases and parasites to native reptile species.

How old do you have to be to care for a red ear slider turtle?

Warnings Red-eared sliders should not be cared for by any child 10 years old and under, without a parent helping at all times. It is too risky for your child, as well as your turtle. Lift your slider only when necessary. When lifting, place the slider onto your hand so that it won’t be frightened.

What happens to a red eared slider when it matures?

As the red-eared sliders mature, these are now able to move to deeper and cooler parts of the pond (usually at 5 to 6 degrees Centigrade lower). In this section of the pond, the organisms are more dispersed which is why the terrapins eat more plants.

What do you need to know about red ear slider turtles?

Red-Eared Slider Turtle 1 Sounds. Although, there have been many reports from red-eared slider owners that they often get hissing sounds, but, the fact is, the sounds do not come from their mouth. 2 Adaptations. 3 Predators.

Where do red eared sliders go after hatching?

Upon hatching, the young turtle stays near its shell for several days, allowing the protruding egg sac on its underside to be reabsorbed. The egg sac must not be damaged or removed before the connection heals over. Nor can the hatchling enter the water until healing is complete, or the turtle will die.

How often do red ear sliders need to be cleaned?

With the right set-up, red-eared sliders can be pretty easy to take care of. First, you need a tank. Compared to other aquarium creatures, red-eared sliders require a relatively large amount of space. They also need clean water, so expect to change their water and clean their filters roughly once a week.

What do red eared sliders do when they sleep?

They also take advantage of this time basking under the sun to maintain their body temperature. Red-eared sliders close their eyes when they sleep and appear to be relaxed. Their legs are usually spread out while their head simply lay on the ground or on a rock, like a pillow. When these sleep underwater, they like to stay inside their shells.