redearslider.com

I've put one 40 gallon rubber tank in an flower bed under my deck. So far I have a Fluval 1 filter in it, a ramp in and out of the enclosed area, sun rock, plants.

I'm digging hole for another one. My one 5 inch red slider seems to like being out of the water sunning under geranims the best!

How deep should the water be for him to be happiest? Does he need a friend? Do I need Fluval 3 filters? What about an airstone? etc. Heater.

Has anyone figured out how to fence against birds etc. without hiding the great view and access to the turtles?

I'm not sure where you are in Diego, but up here in OC, a 40 gallon would get about 100 degrees if I left it in the sun. Are you making sure the water is not too hot? That could be why your RES is not going in it...

Thanks for the temperature reminder. My tank is shaded, with one sunny spot. It feels like 80 degrees -75 degrees compared with his indoor bed, but I get that I better buy a temperature gauge for outdoors. Where do I buy these and what kind are the right ones?

Sam

Any gauge for a fish tank will work...get one that floats. they should be less than $5.

You can even use a thermometer made for pools/jacuzzi's etc.. Most any thermometer is ok, as long as its unbreakable.

Thanks for the therm info. Does anyone know what the ideal depth for swimming is?

Sam

For your 5-inch RES? As deep as you can make it without your turtle being able to escape (unless you have the pond well fenced in). I don't think Fluval filters are meant for outdoor use...

I read an article on the net re: outdoor ponds and it said the fluvals were the easiest for the $ and worked the best. Yikes, I hope we don't get electricuted.

Don't believe everything you read on the Internet...LOL!

Seriously, that really doesn't apply as much to us since it never rains in Southern California...LOL!