Setting Up A Turtle Pond Is Easy and Fun

Are you considering learning more about ponds for turtles? Do you know the answers to the basic questions? What types of turtles live well in an outdoor pond? Do turtle tanks make good aquatic turtle habitats? What aspects of turtle care do you need to know? In order to really care water turtles these are just a few of the topics you need to learn and understand.

Creating an Outdoor Pond for Turtles

To create outdoor ponds for turtles, start by digging a hole. Remember, turtles need access to dry land, so at least one end of your hole should be sloped to allow the turtles to leave the pond. Another way to create an exit point is to use partially submerged logs onto which the turtles can climb. You will want a good enclosure around your pond, because turtles are escape artists. This barrier should be built of brick or cement, not wood, which the turtles could climb.

The water in the pond should be at least three feet deep and have a large surface area. Add oxygenation through waterfalls or air stones. Remember that turtles hibernate in the winter and will need plenty of oxygen in the water, since they will not come to the surface. Also provide your turtles with some shelter by placing rocks or logs on the banks. Your first turtles should be fully grown since birds will prey on baby turtles in an outdoor pond.

Be careful to choose a species of turtles suitable for temperate climates, not those that live in tropical zones. Even moderate cold weather will kill tropical turtles. Even with temperate turtles you will need to heat the water and provide heat lamps to help the animals survive the winter. A good layer of mud on the bottom of the pond will help protect the turtles during hibernation.

Feeding Your Turtles

One of the most important questions is simply, "What do turtles eat?" In the wild, turtles consume both meat and vegetables. Your turtles will need a varied diet in captivity. The turtle flakes offered by a pet store are not sufficient, because they lack many vitamins and the important fiber turtles need. Add feeder fish to the water to provide the turtles with a live food source and with mental stimulation. Supplement this diet with plenty of plant leaves. Turtles will also enjoy feasting on snails and other aquatic insects.

Continue to: Adding Plants to Your Pond