Habitat - Outdoor :: Outdoor environments and hibernation

[robothedino]

Hi! I have two RES's, each about 3 years old, that have outgrown my ability to care for them. I'd like to let them loose in a friends pond, which is plenty large and has lots of small fish, plants and the like for their dietary needs. My concern is the winter temperatures. The pond is at an elevation of about 3000 feet, and during the winter temperatures are sometimes below freezing. I've been given to understand that RES's are able to hibernate, but it is not ideal for them to do so. Anybody have more specifics on this, or advice?
Thanks!

[jenaero]

My advice is to find an indoor home for them with a responsible owner. I know that the bottom of the pond needs to be covered with mud (unsure of how deep) and definetly needs to be below the frost line. Check local rescue organizations or see if there's some one here on the forum from your area who would take them in.