Why Remove the Basking Platform for Turtles in Autumn and Winter? Analysis of the Impact of Temperature Difference on Aquatic Turtles

A basking platform is a necessary piece of equipment for keeping aquatic turtles, and turtle keepers with some experience usually set up a basking platform in the turtle tank. This is designed based on the habits of aquatic turtles. After setting up the basking platform, turtles can independently choose whether to come ashore to bask in the sun. Regular sunbathing helps the healthy growth of aquatic turtles.

Adjustment of the Basking Platform in Autumn and Winter

As we enter the autumn and winter seasons, we recommend that everyone remove the basking platforms. The main reason is that the weather becomes cold, and there is a large temperature difference between day and night. The temperature of the water changes relatively smoothly, but the significant temperature difference after coming out of the water may cause some turtles with weaker physiques to fall ill, especially young turtle hatchlings. In the case of excessive temperature differences, they are prone to catching colds or developing pneumonia, which can even threaten their lives.

Personal Breeding Opinion

So, removing the basking platform in cold weather is a very prudent method, and I personally agree with this. However, some friends may ask me: “If so, why don’t you remove the basking platform? In your videos, turtles still come out of the water to bask in the sun during the autumn and winter seasons, so is there a problem with your approach?”

Breeding Methods Adapted to Local Conditions

Faced with this question, I must first emphasize that while turtle breeding methods are similar in many ways, they must be adapted to local conditions. For example, the breeding methods in Guangdong obviously cannot be directly applied to the Northeast region, as there is a significant difference in climate and temperature between the north and south. All breeding theories must be based on the actual breeding environment.

Personal Breeding Environment and Practice

For example, my home has heating, and my turtles are kept on the balcony with ample light, and the environmental temperature is consistently maintained at over twenty degrees, even not dropping below twenty degrees at night. At the same time, these turtles have been raised in cold water for more than a year, and their physical condition is good. They are naturally more cold-resistant, and coupled with the relatively large volume of water in my tank, considering all the above factors, the temperature is stable, the water volume is sufficient, and the turtles are also healthier. Therefore, these turtles basically have no problem coming out to bask in the sun in winter, so I have not removed the basking platform and have retained the breeding habits of summer. If my home did not have heating, or if I were breeding outdoors and unable to control the temperature, relying completely on the weather with sudden changes, then I would choose to remove the basking platform in advance.

Breeding Advice

So, dear friends, every household’s situation is different, and do not blindly imitate others’ ways of thinking. You can learn from and draw on the experience of others, but you must forge a breeding path that suits your own characteristics.