Do you wonder Why does my turtle try to climb the wall? It’s like they’re trying to escape!
You’ll learn how to stop this behavior in this article so carry on reading
Your turtle may climb out because its environment isn’t suitable for it. For example, if you’ve kept your pet in a small aquarium without providing enough space for it to move around freely, it may feel trapped and attempt to escape. This happens because turtles prefer large spaces over smaller ones. In addition, if you haven’t provided your pet with sufficient amounts of food, dirt, and/or water, it may also feel compelled to leave. You can prevent this behavior by ensuring your pet receives adequate nutrition, exercise, and stimulation.
Why does my turtle try to climb out?
There could be several reasons why your turtle climbs the wall and want to get out
Let’s look at the possible reasons
Turtles require large tanks because they grow quickly and eat very fast. The larger the tank, the longer your pet will live. This means fewer vet bills down the road. If you buy a smaller tank than what your pet requires, you will end up paying more in veterinary costs later on.
It is a rule of thumb that a turtle of one-inch shell length needs at least a 10-gallon tank. So, if you work this out and do the math you’ll get an appropriately sized tank for your turtle. It will save most of your turtle keeping problems in the long run.
Turtles often hide under logs, rocks, or even in shallow water during daytime hours because they feel safer away from predators. However, turtles must also be wary of danger at night since many species hunt at dusk and dawn.
Turtles naturally seek shelter during cold weather. If you do not provide adequate protection against extreme temperatures, then turtles will likely feel uncomfortable and try to escape the enclosure.
The tank isn’t kept clean enough. You must invest in a quality canister filter to ensure proper maintenance of the tank.
Turtle tanks require special care because turtles cannot breathe through water. A lot of aquarium filters aren’t designed to handle a large amount of water flow, especially in high pressure situations. This particular canister filter was specifically made to handle the demands of a turtle tank. The design allows for quick filtration without clogging, even under heavy loads. You can rest assured knowing that your tank won’t run dry during peak times.
You may also notice that some tanks require frequent water changes because of how much ammonia builds up over time. This is why water changes are very important for maintaining healthy living environments. Water changes are what keep the water quality safe for the inhabitants.
A good rule of thumb is to check the water quality at least once per week. If anything seems amiss, then a simple water change is recommended.
There could be something wrong with the water quality. Nitrates, nitrites, and ammonia levels should be at minimum amounts. A simple water test kit can give you information about how healthy the water is.
Turtles aren’t meant to live in small aquariums. You’ll know whether this is true based on how much activity your pet turtle exhibits. If he/she seems lethargic, inactive, uninterested in anything around him/her, and isn’t eating properly, then chances are good that he/she would benefit from being released back into nature.
No basking area
Turtles require a specific temperature range during the winter months, and this means that they must have access to a basking spot. If you do not provide them with enough heat, they will die.
Turtles can bask near tanks and receive ultraviolet radiation and warmth through the glass.
Your turtle needs a safe place where he/she can rest during the day, so if you don’t have a basking area for him/her, consider buying one now.
Basking area temperature
A reptile cannot regulate its body temperature properly without access to adequate sunlight; therefore, if the basking temperature is either too hot or cold, then the animal will not be able to bask effectively.
Turtles prefer temperatures between 60°F and 80°F.
They also require water at least once per week.
The ideal temperature range is 65–75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Check the temperature of the basking area with a thermometer.
If the temperature is too cold, move the heater closer to the turtles; otherwise, increase its power.
Be careful not to put the heaters too near the turtles, because it can cause burns.
If the temperature is too hot, you can either purchase a smaller heat lamp or move the light farther away from your turtle.
Generally speaking, temperatures should range between 85 and 90°F (29–32°C) during summer months and 65 and 70°F (18–21°C) during winter months. However, this varies based on the type of turtles being kept.
Scared
A newly adopted pet often behaves erratically at first because he/she feels insecure and anxious.
This behavior usually subsides after several weeks.
Turtles can get frightened very quickly, and moving from one location to another can be extremely daunting for them.
They will move from a tiny confined space, shared with several turtles, to a large spacious enclosure where they can live alone.
If they were shipped via snail mail, they would be even more terrified.
Your turtle will likely act normal after a few days, but if he seems stressed, try leaving him alone until he calms down.
You won’t be able to change anything at this point, but hopefully he gets over the stress quickly.
Should I let my turtle walk about?
Letting your pet roam free indoors and outdoors provides him/her with physical activity, mental stimulation, and meets their innate desire to explore. Make sure you prepare the space ahead of time and ensure it is safe before letting your pet loose.
Turtles require supervision while walking around, watching for any signs of trouble.
You must be present at all times during this activity.
There are many environmental hazards that can affect our homes and properties, some of which we cannot see until something goes wrong.
The main ones include other animals (and/or pets), exposure to too much sunlight and loose items that can cause harm in the environment.
As part of your routine care regimen, you should also provide adequate space for your pet turtle to live comfortably within its enclosure.
Your dog must have enough room to run free while you aren’t home or unable to take him/her outside.
