Hey all! Turtle mom here wondering if anybody else keeps their turtle(s) outside?? If so any tips, tricks or advice you can give? Any issues you've run across?
I am moving my 4 inch red eared slider outside to a small "pond". Its actually a round, small, plastic kiddie pool. Filled about 3/4 full. Drilled a hole near top to keep water from flooding over. Basking dock and a few decorations in there (rocks and artificial plants). Its situated right next to my back door- its actually in a corner so its very protected/sheltered but the opening will be towards the sun. It has its own little area including a fence. (Will post pics when its finished).
I live in Iowa so he can't stay outside year round, but should definately have several months in summer where he can be out there enjoying some real sun! I plan on bringing him inside at night time (can get a little cool at night plus he's still pretty small/young).
I am a little nervous about leaving him outside but feel like he is tucked into a pretty safe place. Plus my dog hangs out in the backyard all day so he should ward off any creatures that may take interest in him!
Am I missing anything or need to do anything differently? Am totally up for advice and suggestions. I haven't researched keeping turtles outside much so please help me out if I'm totally screwing this up!
I am moving my 4 inch red eared slider outside to a small "pond". Its actually a round, small, plastic kiddie pool. Filled about 3/4 full. Drilled a hole near top to keep water from flooding over. Basking dock and a few decorations in there (rocks and artificial plants). Its situated right next to my back door- its actually in a corner so its very protected/sheltered but the opening will be towards the sun. It has its own little area including a fence. (Will post pics when its finished).
I live in Iowa so he can't stay outside year round, but should definately have several months in summer where he can be out there enjoying some real sun! I plan on bringing him inside at night time (can get a little cool at night plus he's still pretty small/young).
I am a little nervous about leaving him outside but feel like he is tucked into a pretty safe place. Plus my dog hangs out in the backyard all day so he should ward off any creatures that may take interest in him!
Am I missing anything or need to do anything differently? Am totally up for advice and suggestions. I haven't researched keeping turtles outside much so please help me out if I'm totally screwing this up!
