Reptile & Amphibian Forums

AFter reading the posts below about covering the tort's pen I'm wondering if I am putting my 9" Yellowfoot female in jeopardy by allowing her to be uncovered outside in her summer pen. I always felt that she was now large enough to not be preyed upon by natural predators. She has a lovely wooden house with an opening just large enough for her and lots of bushes, shady spots and soaking ponds. I also have hatchling redfoots which live outside in their baby pens that are complete secured from all such predators by heavy gauge wire and heavy hinged lid. The yellowfoot has lived outdoors this entire summer without adverse consequences. I live in Louisiana and the weather is perfect for both species and they are thriving. Am I being foolish? Thanks

If you live in a rural area the odds of you having racoons running about are very good. They are notorious for messing with tortoises. 9 inches is a pretty good size tortoise and I would think that if it hasn't been messed with yet it probably is ok. Also, I can't remember a single post or story where a tortoise that large was mauled by a wild animal. Usually it is the work of a domestic pet when such an instance turns up.
Ed