All Turtles Message Board

turtle_grl77 · Level 4 Joined: 18 Nov 2005 Posts: 986 Location: Florida

I am putting a pond in my yard for my turtles. One question is what is the best way to make a covering for them to protect them from predators? And two the temps here in Florida now average from mid 70's to low 80's during the day and mid 50s at night. Would this still be a bit chilly for them? Confused

I know I could buy a heater for them, which would be the best. Sorry for asking alot of questions, need to get a jump on building the pond soon as they are getting "cramped" in the tank I have them in now. Razz

deesygirl · Moderator Joined: 12 Sep 2002 Posts: 1197

RES are native to your area so your temps are perfect for them. The night temps are ok as long as they can warm up enough durning the day. The problems arrise when they are in captivity and they can't warm themselves enough to offset cold water.

I use chicken wire to cover the smaller pond area. My large pond is uncovered. The turtles will actually dive under the water when the birds and other predators get to close. In a small pond they can't get away as well.