Red-eared sliders are one of the easiest species to keep in captivity. The outdoor ponds are the best choice for the Red-eared slider because they look like a natural habitat for them, however, these species require an ideal setup for living in the artificial environment. In this article, we will tell you how to make the ideal outdoor setup for turtles. Here we go!
How to Make the Perfect Outdoor Pond For a Red-Eared Slider?
The ideal setup for the red-eared turtles is based on:
- Location of the pond
- Correct size and depth of the pond
- Proper climatic conditions
- Large basking areas
- Large areas to hide
- Aquatic plants
- Adequate amount of oxygen
What Material is Needed For an Outdoor Pond Setup?Â
Here is the list of the essentials which are needed for setting up the outdoor pond for turtles:
- A plastic pond liner
- Sand is needed to cover the floor of the pond liner
- A cave for hiding or resting
- Rocks and logs for basking
- Gravels or stones
- Hose of water
- Dustpan
- Vegetation
- Net cover
How to Build an Outdoor Pond?
To set an ideal outdoor setup for the turtles, the following steps must be followed:
1: First of all, mark the location and dig up the area. Make sure all the sizes of the digging areas must be equal so that water does not flow out.
2: The next step is to dig up an area for installing a fence to close the areas from all sides. Make sure to dig up 1 foot deep to keep the fence under the ground, to prevent the turtles from escaping.
3: Now is the time to fix the pond liner and avoid excessive fold.
4: Fill the liner with 1 to 2 inches of the sand layer. Also, add rocks and logs to give a pond a natural look.
5: After that, fill the pond with water and keep the water temperature ideal for the turtles to live in.
6: Built-in a water filter to keep the water clean and to maintain hygienic conditions.
7: Create a hiding area for them to sleep and rest
8: The pond will probably look realistic if aquatic plants are added to it. The plants provide them with shade, food, and shelter. Plants like water lettuce, hyacinth, tape glass, and fairy moss are best to choose from.
9: You can also add ponds mates such as minnows or goldfish or other species of turtles.
10: After installing a fence, now cover the pons with a net which will allow the sunlight to pass on easily and protect the turtles from predatory animals.
The pond is ready for the red-eared turtle.
Final Verdict
Red-eared turtles require an ideal setup for living in the outdoor pond. The pond must have been built up in a suitable location and climate, have a particular size and depth, rocks, logs, aquatic plants, and open exposure for sunlight to pass on easily. Further, maintain a hygienic condition by cleaning the pond water regularly or installing water filters. Now, introduce your turtles to the pond.
