Steph is right here. I live in NM......but we are at a little over a mile high elevation here. We have had a few nights that have dipped into the single digits already this winter.

Human nature is to worry about our critters but one thing we must all keep in mind is that our box turtles have survived for thousands if not millions of years WITHOUT our help. It helps to keep in mind that you are probably not too worried about the wild turtles that live in your general location. These animals live a long life most of the time without OUR help. It also helps to remember that these long, cold brumation periods are what prepare our turtles to breed next sping and summer. Chin up folks.....don't worry, be happy

>>A couple of years ago I started measuring the temperatures within the hibernacula here in central VA. The temperatures below ground remained fairly stable in comparison to the air temperature, and typically range from 40F-45F throughout much of the winter, occasionally dipping below 40F but never by much, even if the outside air was in the teens.
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>>Keep in mind that the objective (as far as the turtles are concerned)is to *not freeze* rather than to stay warm. Compost does indeed generate heat which can actually be counterproductive (and possibly very unhealthy or even deadly for your turtles) during the winter.
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Vichris
"The object of life is not to be on the side of the majority but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane"- Marcus Aurelius

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