Apainted turtle is a cold-blooded animal that often sits on a log and basks in the sun.

why might it do this?

Painted turtle often sits on log and basks in the sun in order to regulate its body temperature.

Explanation:

Painted turtles can be found in most part of North America. Painted turtles are cold blooded which means that unlike humans who are warm blooded beings and who can regulate their own body temperature, painted turtles are dependent on the outside surroundings to regulate their body temperature.

In order to get warmth and to balance their body temperature, painted turtles are often found sitting in the sun enjoying the heat mostly near the log or ponds. Compared to other turtle, painted turtles can stand the cold real well.