Illness/Sickness: Californian newts in hiding !

[penthea]

Hi can any one help me ? I have four Californian newts which over the last few weeks have hidden themselves away and very rarely come out to feed ! They were great eaters and very active. The temperature in the tank is usually 18-21 c which from what i can gather is ok for them, the water has been tested and is fine , can anyone please help me with as to why they have become so timid !

 

[Jennewt]

How long have you had them? When you say "hidden themselves away", can you explain what you mean? Is the setup terrestrial or aquatic? Are they hiding in the water or on land?

The temperature is acceptable, but i would recommend lowering it if you can.

 

[bewilderbeast]

Here in California, the wild Newts were active until a few weeks ago when we started into the end of the dry season. When it reaches the driest part of the year the newts head underground to cooler, damper haunts. You may be witnessing a natural summer/ autumn estivation period...

 

[penthea]

How long have you had them? When you say "hidden themselves away", can you explain what you mean? Is the setup terrestrial or aquatic? Are they hiding in the water or on land?

The temperature is acceptable, but i would recommend lowering it if you can.

Hi well I have had them about six months they are in a 3/4 land 1/4 water set up they were aquatic but now have made their way up as far away from the water as possible and hide in any crevice they can find and come out about once every two days !

 

[penthea]

Here in California, the wild Newts were active until a few weeks ago when we started into the end of the dry season. When it reaches the driest part of the year the newts head underground to cooler, damper haunts. You may be witnessing a natural summer/ autumn estivation period...

I think you have something ! they do seem to be doing the same ! I was a little worried as they seem to be eating less !

 

[eldaldo]

Also, I've noticed when newts go terrestrial . . . they tend to hide. When they are aquatic, they always seem more visible. has anyone else noticed this?