How cold is too cold?

[tammy]

I am currently staying in a house that is only heated inthe living room. My paddletail newt lives in a room, along with myself, that is not heated. The temp on her 10 or 15 gallan tank is at 50 degrees F and its gettin' colder. I wrap the tank with a blanket at night, getting covers and putting 'Oar' to bed always earns a big laugh from my boyfriend. Anyway, I have a heater for tank, but oar seems fine. How cold is too cold?? The water is moving through a small pump and there are river plants in it.

 

[karen]

I think it would be more of a concern if it were too warm rather than too cold. Newts are more comfortable in cooler weather than warmer. I think temps in the 60's would be more ideal but 50 degrees should not pose a problem. If you use a heater, just make sure that the temps don't get too warm. Or, is it possible to move the tank to the living room which is heated? But, how are YOU coping in such a cold house?? Yikes!

 

[ali]

Hey tammy, I've heard of people "wintering" their newts which should give you better breeding results later...but I'm honestly not sure. I wouldn't want it to get int he lower fifties, I don't think...I'd wait for someone with more experience to answer, but wouldn't panic until then. I'm sure it'll be fine, but more long term might be of concern....

anyone else know?

 

[katie]

I'm not really sure either, dont have that much experience, but I would agree with Ali, I would think being in the 50's too long might not be that great...

maybe you can knit him a sweater and hat to keep warm

....

 

[mark]

Pachytriton’s range covers a variety of climatic conditions – from sub-tropical in the south through to temperate in the central area. Pachytriton labiatus’ eastern range will experience temperatures similar to this: http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/world/city_guides/results.shtml?tt=TT002130
At this time of year wild Pachys will be experiencing anything down to 37 F, so 50 F shouldn’t be too much of a problem – you can put down the knitting needles, he won’t need a sweater. That said, it’s always wise to try to avoid extremes in captivity so I personally wouldn’t subject him too close to freezing.

 

[jennifer]

If the newt is still active and eating, I wouldn't worry at all. It is OK if it eats less, as they need less when colder. I think you can skip the blankets, though it's a nice gesture.