Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have 5 adult eastern box turtles (1 male, 4 females). I have had all of them for years and they have been in a very stable environment (14 x 14 outdoor habitat). They get morning sun and afternoon shade and all thrive well. We have an area in our backyard that we are putting in a small pond and I wanted to relocate the turtles to this area. The area does not get morning sunlight though. It is shaded until about 11:00 am. Can they thrive without the morning light, or should I just leave them where they are? Thanks. Annette.

the question is not really "will they thrive without the morning light?" but will the other area have too much afternoon sun and be uncomfortably hot by the time they get the sun? morning sun and afternoon shade, or afternoon sun with midday shade is much better than midday sun with any other combination. I think they should stay where they are if they are doing fine. introducing more changing variables is never a good idea with a reptile.

Mick
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"A man that should call every thing by it's right name, would hardly pass the streets without being knocked down as a common enemy."

The Complete Works of Goerge Savile, First Marquess of Halifax, 1912.

Will the turtles be able to get into the pond? I ask because someone I know just lost his box turtle due to drowning. Apparently the turtle never had a problem before finding its way out. Since the turtles do so well where they are why not leave them there? Can you make a "pathway" to the new area for the turtles? This way the more adventurous ones can explore, but they can all still get their morning sun if they want to
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Tess
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