Turtle ponds are self-sustaining, natural ecosystems. They are easy to care for and possess extensive landscaping possibilities. Raising pond turtles and introducing vibrant plants and flourishing fish to the pond will enhance any property, and the task often morphs from a responsibility into a passion.
Instructions
1. Turtles have a natural instinct to constantly seek out larger bodies of water, so a pond must be constructed in a way that will prevent them from wandering away. Turtles also have extremely long limbs and they will utilize them to escape. The best way to confine turtles within the pond is to provide a barrier of sunken pieces of floor tile, wood or chicken wire. Make sure the barrier is sunk deep enough into the ground to be steadily supported against wind, rain and other animals. The barrier must also reach high enough out of the ground to successfully prevent the turtles from climbing over. Disguise the barrier by covering it with large rocks, creating a natural appearance.
2. Plants are a necessity when raising pond turtles because they provide a replenishable source of food and shelter. Plants that remain completely submerged within the water provide vital food and nutrients for the turtles. Ideal floating plants include duckweed, parrot feather and water lettuce. Plants that float above the surface with only the root system submerged often have large leaves or pads that float on the water, which provides shelter for turtles from predatory animals such as birds, raccoons and opossums. Several ideal plants that grow above the surface include elephant ears, iris, lotus and umbrella plants.
3. Fish are a great addition to a turtle pond, and they never have to be fed because they eat the plants, bugs and debris within the water. They will actively reproduce, constantly providing boundless natural food and necessary entertainment for the turtles. When first introducing fish to a turtle pond, start with a small number to guarantee the water balance is able to sustain fish life. Adaptive fish that reproduce abundantly and are perfect for turtle ponds include guppies, feeder goldfish and mosquito eaters.
4. Pond turtles also need a place to rest in the sun outside the water. Multiple sunning locations are ideal for larger ponds that contain numerous turtles. The sunning location is easily built by arranging rocks into a cone shape, with the largest rocks on the bottom. Make the base wide and strong enough to support a flat, smooth rock lying on top. This sunning rock must be positioned so it is above the water, yet provides the turtles the opportunity to quickly slide on and off. If possible, position the flat sunning rock at a slight angle.
5. Turtle nutrient supplements are available at any pet store. It is important to buy supplements specifically designed for the breed of turtle you're raising. Nutrient supplements are typically meant to be provided no more than once a week, so don't rely on this type of feeding method constantly. Overall, especially for older turtles, if a wide array of natural fish and plants is provided, the turtles will eat at a pace that is required for their particular metabolism. Turtles also require different amounts of food and nutrients during different times of the year. When raising pond turtles, it is important to provide each turtle with the natural ability to constantly regulate its own dietary needs.
6. A pool or fish scooping net is required to clean all debris that is not biodegradable from the surface of the pond. The bottom of the pond will not need to be cleaned if the surface is maintained regularly. The debris that does sink to the bottom will turn into a soft base that the turtles will tunnel through and hide within.
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