Greetings all,

We are new to Turtles and just purchased an Ornate Box Turtle, most likely male, and allegedly (from the guy at the pet store) 4-5 years old. Right now we have him in an enclosure inside with UVA and UVB light and a normal light bulb in a reflector which is raising the temp. in the spot to about 90. The questions we have are:

1) Would he do Okay in an outside enclosure through October or so (or when would we want to bring him in)?

2) When can he go back outside again?

3) How hot should the basking spot be?

4) How cool can it get at night without sending him into hibernation?

5) How long lived may this guy be?

6) What are the major concerns and things to look for healthwise?

7) Is a newspaper substrate adequate (shredded in hiding box)?

8) Are predators in the neighborhood (racoons or cats) potential problems if we let him roam in the backyard outside of a smaller enclosure (eg. if we just put up a gate on a large outside deck)?

9) What is the easiest way to tell the sex?

10) Is there a simple nutritious food source (ie. dog chow) that can be easily obtained and used as a staple for the diet that can be supplimented occasionally with bugs, etc...?



Sorry for all the questions but we just got him and want to start off on the right track. Any info is welcome.
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Amor et Lux,

Ron



"The gods tolerate the human race for no other reason than our talent for bullsh1t. It's the only thing about us that doesn't bore them to tears" Tom Robbins "Villa Incognito"

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