Building Rufus' Outdoor Enclosure

tortugatamer

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So I am getting ready for the spring when Rufus will be living outside during the day. The space will be 12'x15'. Nothing much to show now but the fence but I'm excited and want to share!
These are the rough decorating plans. The enclosure will have a good sized pond and 2 or 3 burrows. 1382197717057.jpg
And this is the spot. It used to be our garden, but I decided the tort needs a proper home. So I am revamping the fence and getting ready for planting. We will plant 4 coneflower plants, 2 hibiscus plants, 3 prickly pear cacti, and several native and decorative grasses.
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I'll post more as I am able to do more. Unfortunately I am a weekend warrior so the progress is going to be slooow going, but worth it.
 
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wellington

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Sounds and looks like it will be a great area. Not sure your dog is going to like giving up his resting spot.:D. Look forward to the progressive pics.
 

tortugatamer

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Haha! They really do think they own everything from the doorknobs down! So got another side built so far.1382215042585.jpg
 
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tortugatamer

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Done for the day. Not too bad for the first weekend. The whole fence is up and a few plants are in the ground. 1382224378488.jpg
 
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tortugatamer

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So I have had a productive week. All of the fencing panels are up and the plants are in the ground for the most part. I even got the hole for the pond dug. Here are some photos of the progress.
From the left side
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From the right side
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Right side looking at a burrow
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The view from the open gate
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Left side
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And from behind the pond looking at 2 of the burrows
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Come spring I will plant more grass seed. I already seeded with some local grasses that are going to seed now. Who knows if they will come up but it's worth a try. Next step will be to construct the pond. I know it looks deep but once it is done the deepest part will be 8" deep. Thanks for looking!
 
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lynnedit

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That's a great spot. Looks like a nice blend of sun and shade. Nice hides, nice landscaping.

(note: some people have had trouble with critters breaking through chicken wire, so keep that in mind of your dog will be outside when your tortoise is out there).

Nicely done!
 

tortugatamer

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Thanks! I was thinking of reinforcing the chicken wire with boards drilled into the back of the fence. And now I think that is exactly what I will do. Thanks for the heads up. It was our old garden spot so it gets PLENTY of sun, I'm just happy pepper plants are perennials down here so we have instant shade.
 

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