Habitat - Outdoor :: Going to build an outdoor pond. HALP!

[H15A5H1]

I just wanted to get some input on this pond project im going to tackle.

I have 1 full grown (11") female RES, and 2 male RES (5-6" each).
What would be the best size pond for these guys?


Im going to have to somehow split the pond in half so the males cannot bother the female. Possibly with a piece of eggcrate down the middle. Im looking for something along the lines of a rubbermaid stock tank that is freestanding.

Also, what would be the best filter to use on a pond that size? Would i need to buy a regular mechanical filter as well as a skimmer filter?


Thanks!

[jozzep]

150 gallon would be enough, but the bigger you can make it (or buy it),the better.
I know there's gonna be a bunch of people repeating the 10 gallon x inch rule they learned the first day they signed up to the site, and if you want to follow it,power to ya.It works perfectly if you have money to spend on such an enclosure.
Your turtles look great by the way.Don't even look like captive breed RES.Nice smooth shell.

[steve]

Where do you live? Will they be outside year-round?

[H15A5H1]

i live in southern california. and yes they will be outside all the time.

[marisa]

For a pond, 150 gallons is not a pond, it's a puddle. I'd say a minimum of 500 gallons, bigger is better, especially if it's going to be a year 'round habitat.