Other Turtle Discussion :: Cross Country Driving

[NavyPAO]

Hi all,

I am being transfered from Tampa to San Diego. I have a small try transporting cage, but I doubt that will work for the 5-7 day cross country run. Anyone have any good suggestions on the best way to transport my turt so she arrives alive and remains healthy???

[PaperFeathers]

You could always try a Rubbermaid container appropriate for your turtle's size. Don't fill it up all the way with water, since hitting bumps around Tampa is actually pretty common. : / Just about half-way, or if you have the lid, puncture holes in it and fill the water a bit higher for the oxygen in the water to be able to circulate. RES are aquatic turtles and do require water, by the way.

Also, don't leave your turtle in direct sunlight too long. It's easy for them to overheat, especially in a car. You should provide her with light, though.

Feed normally, and pay attention to your turtle. Big changes from city to city between climate, elevation, etc. can stress the animal.

[sonyj]

You should never transport your turtle in a container of water. The constant motion of the water will make him ill. There are several posts on here about transporting turtles. Try searching for them. Here's one of them but there's more if you'll just search "transportation": http://www.redearslider.com/forum/viewt ... ting#11783

[steve]

This has come up a few times.. let me recap.

DO NOT transport them in water.
DO NOT transport them in an air-tight container.
DO NOT transport them in temperatures that are too cold or hot. (70-80 should be fine)
DO NOT place the container/box in direct sunlight or in a trunk

DO provide something soft on the bottom.... shredded newspaper, towels - something they can burrow under. They will likely take the time for a nap.
DO provide some air holes for ventilation.

If it is necessary to feed them, do so in a separate container with a minimal amount of water. Bring a thermometer if you know you will be feeding him.

good luck

[marisa]

http://www.turtlecare.net/fly.htm for some more info on land and air travel. Don't know the temps will be when you travel, but if it's warm, I'd periodically hydrate the turtle during the trip.