basking

[netty.ray]

can anyone tell me whats the best bulb for turtles basking thanks

[Graham]

That depends on the size of your tank. For a larger tank, say 3'+, a mercury vapour lamp such as the T-Rex/MegaRay is definitely the way to go. These bulbs give out a lot of heat though and aren't really suitable for smaller tanks, there's a danger of overheating the whole tank.

For smaller tanks you can use a flourescent UVB lamp, I recommend a compact one mounted directly over the basking area, I use the Exo Terra Repti Glo 10.0 myself. In addition to this you also need a spotlamp for heat, an ordinary 40-60W reflector is perfectly adequate, a pack of 3 is about £1.50 from any DIY store.

[netty.ray]

iv just dun a bigger tank im hoping to pick sum more turts up this weekend iv bin offerd a female red ear for £25 its about 7or8inch do u think this is a good deal.

[Graham]

When you can pick up a RES for free from a rescue centre I'd say £25 is rather expensive! With most of these common species you're really doing the owner a favour by taking them off their hands, so to be asked to pay for them is a bit of a cheek IMO.

[netty.ray]

wich are the best rescue centers to get intouch with

[Graham]

Depends where you are, try your local ones, most have RES, YBS etc...