04-09-2011, 06:35 PM | #1 |
Junior Member
Egg
Join Date: Sep 2011
Posts: 7
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What does an outdoor enclosure need?
Hi there,
My sister owns a horsefields tortoise who is about four years old but will be passed into my care within the next year. He currently lives in a small tortoise table and I feel that he needs better housing. I've been trying to research outdoors housing for tortoises but haven't come across much clear information about the requirements for a horsefields tortoise living outside. I was hoping I could get some basic advice on this as I really want to give him a better life, his first four years have been very dull and lonely. So if anyone could answer some of my questions I'd be very grateful! 1) Can a horsefields tortoise live outdoors all year round? I live in the North West of the UK and we dont have the warmest weather so that may be a concern. 2) Does outdoor housing need heat lamps or lights similar to the tortoise table or something different? 3)Does the outdoor enclosure need a large shed/hutch or just a small covered area for the tortoise to hide/sleep? Thank you in advance to any replies! |
05-09-2011, 04:40 AM | #2 |
Member
Hatched
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Washington State, USA
Posts: 332
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I think most provide a secure run that is tort landscaped, with a small shed or dog house with heat and UVB for dull days. Some also insert a cold frame between the shed/dog house and the outside run for the torts to warm up in as well. Sometimes the UVB is in the cold frame if it is elevated on wood or bricks, so high enough.
Keep an enclosure inside to bring them into on really wet/cold days. Horsfields can do cooler weather, but wet + cold is a bad combination for them. Have you looked a the enclosure pictures in the Housing section? I found some great ideas there, including how to improve drainage outside, etc. It is very satisfying to have them outside even part time, they really thrive.
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Lynne Horsfields 1.3.0 Ornate box turtle 0.1.0 Pacific NW, US |
08-09-2011, 10:54 PM | #3 |
Junior Member
Egg
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: kent
Posts: 17
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this subject is of interest to myself. I am also needing to know this info.
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Tags |
help me, horsefield, living requirements, new tortoise, outdoor enclosure |
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