Reptile & Amphibian Forums

hi Folks: I put my three eastern boxes in a 6ft by 2 ft Stock tank a month ago. I'm amazed how much better the three of them appear staying outside. I guess the Sun and the normal weather & day night cycle has really made a difference. I have a screen cover over the tank and about 2 ft is covered in plastic to keep it dry. The other 4ft gets exposed to the rain and it is great to watch the turtles wallow in the mud puddles when it rains. They appear 100 % better. I live in New York so they will have to come inside in the winter, but I just wanted to express my expierience with outdoor cages. I use topsoil as a bedding with a few hiding spots too choose from.

Mark

Thanks for sharing! I live in VA, and mine stay out year round: I overwintered three inside one year due to health problems, and had convinced myself that they were doing fine until spring arrived and I was able to keep them outdoors. Boy, was I wrong.
Isn't the difference amazing?
Stephanie

Keeping box turtles outside is the way to go. I have been able to tell 100% difference in the behavior of my turtles they are much more muscular and stronger as a result of being outside. Also I have notice a remarkable difference in the color of my males. They are becoming much brighter orange. One word of caution though watch out for raccoons they are very adapt at killing turtles.

Mark, be sure to tip the tank to one side slightly and drill some holes about two, then three inches up the side. If you ever have a downpour that lasts long, the turtles could be in danger of drowning if the water level is too high.

Also, the sun can heat the inside of the tank like an oven. I'm sure you are aware of this and have taken precautions, but it's something others should remember if they begin to use the same system.
-----
Tess
Kingsnake.com Forum Host

Just read some replys. The turtles are definetly more active. I have this big stock tank in a spot in my yard that gets a few hours of Sun shine daily and I did drill numeous small holes through out. I also have it tilted a bit so water will settle to one end after a downpour. (Which has happend several times lately) I really enjoy finding the turtles soaking in the wet end of the tank. They seem to go that way when it rains. I have a screen cover over the top with a plastic cover to give shade all the time. I'm confident I have them in a spot that would not over heat to easy. As far as raccoons go? We are surrounded by fenced yards and Dogs. We have 3 to the left, 3 behind us and a Wanna be (very small, hairy thing) to the right. Plus this stock tank is 24 inches high and you can not see in except for above.
There indoor cage smelled a lot. It required a lot of cleaning. I had them in a Vison 48 x 24 cage. Now that they are outside, they just seem so much healther. Eventually I'd like to build a walk in outdoor cage. But, for right now I'm happy my Wife let me get away with this one.

Mark