Russian keeping eyes closed

[lynnedit]

It might be that the analog thermometers just are not that reliable.
You can get a digital thermometer with a probe like the ones Spn has links to. Then you can move the probe around to various locations in the enclosure.
You may also be able to find them at places like Walmart. They are also on Amazon for <$10.
Infared thermometers are a bit more expensive, $20-25.

For now since your tortoise is behaving more normally with eyes open, with the bulb up higher, keep it that way. (it is 150w, so in an enclosure like yours, it might be necessary to have it 14-18" from the tortoise shell).

When you get your new thermometer, check temps and then fine tune them. Your lighting sounds OK, overall, so it might be temps/distance.
As mentioned, keep the substrate moist. It isn't enough to just spray it, also mix water in.

 

[Yvonne G]

I just kind of skimmed the replies to your question about raising the temp under the basking light, so forgive me if someone has already said this. Lower the light. You can raise and lower the fixture until you reach the temp you're looking for.

 

[7oasty23]

I would suggest getting something similar to one of these.

http://lllreptile.com/store/catalog...ers/-/zoo-med-digital-thermometer-with-probe/

http://lllreptile.com/store/catalog...a-digital-thermometer--hygrometer-with-probe/

Didn't realize they were so cheap, we just got a new petstore with a grand opening sale, so I'll stop by in a bit. Thought they would be like 50 or more.

 

[Spn785]

No, not even a temp gun is that expensive usually. But Pet Stores will be more expensive than the ones I showed you.

 

[7oasty23]

No, not even a temp gun is that expensive usually. But Pet Stores will be more expensive than the ones I showed you.

They're doing 25% off for everybody, and 35% off for residents (I live in pigeon forge), so hopefully no more than 20.

 

[Joanne]

Get a lower wattage of bulb and move that lower? It won't be as bright, so won't hurt his eyes, but will still give off the heat. I am using an 80w MVB.