Habitat - Outdoor :: Red Ear Slider Hibernation

[bassman11]

I have three red ear sliders and live in New Orleans. They have an outside pond that holds around 50 gallons. The temperature here can get down to 30 degrees in the winter. What are their habits, what can i do to help them this winter. I`ve noticed that they tend to stay at the bottom of the pool recently and don`t particularly want to eat. I don`t have a filtration system in the pond, but I have a pump that circulates water. Also having a problem with green water. Have tried several algaiecides but haven`t worked.

[jenaero]

You might want to bring them in for the winter. There are a lot of specifics for hibernation and it can be dangerous if you're not sure what you're doing.

[SpotsMama]

On the algae, there's something called a UV sterilizer that's supposed to take care of algae. They are sold at water garden equipment places. I don't know how safe they are for turtles. Here's an ad:

Aqua Ultraviolet ( UV ) Sterilizers for Ponds
Turn Your Pond From 'GREEN' to 'CLEAN'



Ultraviolet ( UV ) sterilizers are a very effective way to control green water algae in ponds, as well control other unwanted elements.


Aqua UV Sterilizers are available in Black and White

UV Sterilizers can also be used to control the amount of harmful bacteria and parasites in your pond, while creating a healthier environment for you pond ecosystem. When using UV Sterilizers as a water clarifier, it will clear your pond of green water algae quickly and effectively, without the use of algaecides.