How big?

[abclements]

How big does Franklin need to be to not need a cover in his outdoor day time enclosure? All I really have to worry about is pigeons... he's on a balcony outside my apt well out of reach of any ground animals.

Sent from my LG-P769 using TortForum mobile app

 

[theelectraco]

I would say 3-4 inches if your biggest threat is a pigeon lol.

 

[abclements]

I should probably mention that I don't want a top so I can get some larger shade type plants to put in there for him...

Sent from my LG-P769 using TortForum mobile app

---

That's kinda what I was thinking too! Lol I'm definitely not super concerned about them but just a thought... I mean in Monty python, a 1# swallow can carry a 3# coconut over large stretches of land lol

Sent from my LG-P769 using TortForum mobile app

 

[mttrhll]

If pigeons are around you can bet there are hawks too. I'd get some metal screening material to keep Franklin safe regardless of size.

A hawk may never be a problem... but better safe than sorry. I live in ohio and last week i saw a hawk of some type going after baby ducks in the water... never seen anything like that in person before.

 

[Redstrike]

Red-tailed, Swainson's, Rough-legged, and Goshawks can kill rabbit-sized prey (just to name a few, there are many more than this). If we talk eagles, it's a whole different game. Personally, I'd retain that cover until the tortoise is at least 8-9 inch SCL.

The cover also aids against racoons, feral dogs & cats, etc. As much as you may dislike it, I'd error on the side of caution.

 

[Madkins007]

There are other ways to dissuade birds as well, like hanging black threads around that they can see and will avoid. You can Google ideas.