Restless Japanese Fire Belly

[justin]

I am having a little trouble with my JFB newt. I have owned him for about 14 months and he recently started to get very restless. He climbs around almost all day through the water plants and he refuses food. He has never acted like this before. I did a ph test on the water and it was right where it should be. The temperature is cool enough as well.

Another question: This same newt (when he had an appetite) has gotten to the point where he will not accept any food but waxworms. I hate giving him waxworms exclusively because they are so fattening. He never liked crickets and he does not like pellets anymore. He does not seem to care for bloodworm gel either. If anyone has suggestions for either problem, please let me know.

 

[chris]

Try earthworms. Chop them up if they are too big. Make sure there is not a high ammonia or nitrate level in the tank, also.
Chris

 

[jennifer]

I agree with Froggy. Also, does the newt have a small island where he can climb out of the water? How long has he not eaten?

When he is eating again, I would say allow more time between feedings, and he should take other foods when he's good and hungry.

 

[justin]

He has a shoreline tank with a relatively large land area. I also have some sturdy plants that he can rest in and still be mostly out of water.

He has not eaten in about a week and a half.

I have had hm for over a year now and this is the first time he has ever acted this way. Someone told me that he may be ready to mate. I do not have any experience with breeding newts. Do they act that way when they are ready?