Not sure this is a temp issue although you need to rule out that your
temps may be off. Males are usually thicker-bodied so yes a temp issue
may show up in them first. Whenever stuff like this happens you have to
go back to the basics and make sure all the parameters are correct.
Often times there is a basic error that is uncovered and explains
strange behavior or lack of normal behavior.
Julie B.
argente wrote:
I will install a moist hide once I have him in the bigger enclosure. He has
moved out of his water bowl and is now just laying by the side of it, even
though it's actually hotter now than when I last checked on him. I'm off to
petco to see if I can get better thermometers. Does this definitely sound
like a temperature issue? It just seems odd that he's the only one of 5
acting strangely. (I'm going to address the things you've brought up anyway
of course, and I'm keeping the vet appointment on Monday just to be safe. I
want my guy to be happy and healthy.)
-Jessica
argente wrote:
* Thanks, Julie.
*>*
*>* Our AC is broken so it is hot and sticky in the whole house right
*>* now. Not sure of his weight, but he's a big boy with a fat tail; no
*>* major loss or gains lately. I looked him over and didn't see any
*>* obvious signs of trauma. He's in a 10x20" (will be moving to a larger
*>* tank when I move next week) by himself with a log hide and a log to
*>* climb on and sit under on the warm end.
*
A bigger set-up does sounds good to create a better temperature gradient.
* There's not enough room for a separate humid box but I mist his tank
*>* during the shedding period and he's never had any trouble with shedding.
*
He would still like it though. It provides them a measure of comfort as
well as helping them shed. It is very natural for lizards to be in moist
hiding spot during hot parts of the day. I'd say he'd choose this over
the water dish.
* Temps are measured with thermometer strips at gecko height on the
*>* inside of each end of the tank. I just took a look and it's saying 81
*>* by the water dish and 85 under the lamp.
*
Here's the deal with temp strips - they can be way off, as much as 20
deg. They are useful to see if you have a temp. gradient though mounted
in the places you have mounted them. Use a mercury-type fish tank
thermometer (about $5 at any place that sells fish), a probe type from
Radio Shack or a laser temp device like Pro Exotics sells.
* Should I move my fan into the gecko room for the time being? I did
*>* turn the lamp off for a while but put it back on after I had him out
*>* to look at him this morning because he felt pretty cold. The girls'
*>* lamps are still off and their temps read 80 everywhere. They are all
*>* in their regular hiding places and seem as active as usual.
*
I'd find out what the more accurate measured temps are and adjust
accordingly.
Julie B.
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