Habitat - Indoor :: New basking platform build question

[Mimi2cas]

I am working on a new basking platform and have a question, i am using acrylic for the ramp to the basking platform. I am debating 2 different approaches for making it anti-skid for Yertle. I can cut grooves width wise across the ramp all the way up(it's 1/4" thick) or I was thinking of using Shurtape brand anti-skid tread tape. My concern with the tape(which would be easier to install) is that it would leach chemicals into the water and/or be too abrasive on his shell. Does anyone have any information or thoughts on which would be better or a better idea? I don't want to drill holes as I think he would catch his claws in them. Thanks. I will post a picture soon.

[VeipaCray]

Drilling holes large enough is what I did. There's a link to my build thread in my signature. 1/2" holes in the acrylic ramp have worked for years now. Easy to clean. No extra chemicals. Easy to build. No problems with turtle claws getting stuck.

[Mimi2cas]

I am going to give that a try. I am also looking for some cork, I think he might like that better for the ramp. This will be a whole new set up for him, should I put a temporary dock/shelf in the tank near the top in case he does not want to try the platform at first. Basically something to rest on at least part way to breathe and rest until he gets used to the new set up. This is a much deeper tank than he has ever had and I don't want anything bad to happen just because he is frightened at first.

[vear]

I am going to give that a try. I am also looking for some cork, I think he might like that better for the ramp. This will be a whole new set up for him, should I put a temporary dock/shelf in the tank near the top in case he does not want to try the platform at first. Basically something to rest on at least part way to breathe and rest until he gets used to the new set up. This is a much deeper tank than he has ever had and I don't want anything bad to happen just because he is frightened at first.

I used shelf liner on my plexi ramp, but my turtle kept pulling it off. Cork would work great, I recently bought some from "Josh's frogs". Really good prices and the site has pictures with measurements so you know exactly what you're getting. A resting spot is not a bad idea... although they rest by hanging on to the ramp, without necessarily having to go up

[Into_the_Mystic]

Has anyone ever used one of those magnetic "Turtle Banks"? I saw them on "Josh's Frogs" website. It sure would free up a lot of space underneath if they work and hold the weight of the turtle without sinking. Would be interested in anyone's opinion before buying one though.

[VeipaCray]

You could always swap out the magnets to rare earth magnets if you need it to hold better.

These have a pull force of 16 lbs. http://www.rare-earth-magnets.com/p-65-nsn0582.aspx

[Into_the_Mystic]

I would say those would definitely hold it. Now to see if anyone here has bought one of these "Turtle Banks"

[Akikta]

I've bought a turtle dock from zoomed as a temporary fitting, but that's it. No "Turtle Bank"

[steve]

I don't think those submerge much which make it tough to climb on, especially for larger turtles.

[tjurhs]

I took a 3inch piece of PVC pipe, and six feet or so of 3/4inch hemp rope. I wrapped the rope around the pipe like a barber's pole and glued it in place with some water proof silicone. Let the silicone glue "gas-out" for a couple of days and then mounted it diagonally across the back of the tanks. My turtle ABSOLOUTELY loves it! She hangs on the underside, climbs up the side (like a clifhanger rock climber), and uses it to bask under the lamp. I came up with the idea one day and my RES has thanked me evermore, it is BY FAR her FAVORITE "toy"

I can post picks of it later (after work) if you guys want.....

[MerryMenagerie]

Did you ever post pictures? I'd love to see it.