[kcneale]

We used to have one of these too, and he was tiny! We had the same problems as you but I noticed the usually lackadasical critter would become really energetic when I took him outside and put him on a warm rock. Sure enough, these turtles need a UV lamp to be happy, and a second white-light bulb wouldn't be too bad for them either. Our turtle liked having a flat rock to sit on top of in his habitat too. the lamp will keep the rock heated and the turtles like this. Keep the aquarium water clean, and scrub off any rocks to keep disease and other gross things from building up.Unfortunately, we found all this out too late and our turtle died from not eating.Handling the turtle a little bit (carefully!) shouldn't harm it but be aware that you could contract some nasty disease from him. Always wash your hands after handling the turtle and any parts of its habitat! I'm sure you know this.. just putting it out there.Good luck. hope it works out this time around!