Do what you want to. Plants/ bushes do not require constant sunlight, there are just some that can not take it all day. So if you go in the shade you can still have your plants and bushes or you go can go with them in the sun. The most important thing is to always have that cooler...
As long as they are not bullfrogs, they can eat a tortoise! I have had toads in an enclosure before and everyone keeps to themselves. Unless of course you are paranoid about disease, etc.
I know it might SOUND complicated, but go buy a 4x8 sheet of white shower liner at lowes, it is very flimsy. Cut the pieces to fit the walls and floor, use liquid nails to apply it and then use tub silicone in all the corners and it will last forever. You could do it all for about $30 and you...
I always say the 1/2" hardware cloth also and then if you wanted to top that partly with the screen to create a cooler climate that would be good also.
You could just drape it all in bird netting. It will keep out birds and coons wouldn't want to fool with it. If you're worried about snakes then you'll have to do something about the gaps in the walls. I'd say if that 6 foot fence closes in the whole yard then you don't have much to worry...
I find the paint trays are great water holes for torts to get in and out as long as they can not enter on any side except the side with the ramp and drill holes in the plastic so it never gets past a certain water level if it rains. I run a knife over the surface numerous times so that the tort...
Alright, fine. It's not porn, it's a nature documentary about an animal's desire for personal self fulfillment. Does that sound "classier"? Lol. I walked out this morning and found my sulcata swimming in his water.... I really wasn't sure they could do that!