Habitat - Outdoor :: Outdoor Pond Question

[kiwi1712]

Hey guys!

I have been looking at all the wonderful pond setups, and when my boyfriend and I move into a new house within the next year I want to build a pond in the backyard and put my RES in it, who is currently in an indoor setup. My main question is...how the heck do you keep the turtle in the pond? lol..Every time I tell someone what my future plans are, they laugh at me telling me my turtle won't stay in the pond. Is this true? I've read that if they have the things to live (basking area, food, shelter) then they will stay. Would I have to build something around it to make sure they don't escape?

Any input would be appreciated..Thanks!

-Kelly

[Daniel3507]

you will have to make a ledge around the pond that a turtle wont be able to climb or else your turtle will crawl out. when you build it be sure to make the ledge so that he wont have anything to grab on to.

[Raphulk]

the fence will not only block you turtle from going out, it will also block animals from coming in. remember that outdoors there are actual predators for your turtle to be prone to. so make sure you think long and hard before making the decision to build your own pond.

[Daniel3507]

you could also put some chicken over the top of everything to keep animals out

[kiwi1712]

Thanks guys..another question...

I live in Mass, where it gets bitter cold in the winter...how does the turtle survive those conditions?? Would a heater in the pond be enough or is there more to it?

[mat012]

Look back on other posts, (there was one recently about heaters in ponds) but I think you will have to bring it inside for the winter.

[Daniel3507]

i would bring them inside since it gets really cold there