If I screen in an outdoor tortoise enclosure will the Red foot get enough sun.

[Jaxtortoise]

Thinking of doing a 4 foot by 12 foot outdoor enclosure for a 3 year old red foot here in Florida. I was thinking of doing 12 inch wooden sides about a foot or two screen on the sides and screen on the top. I would have wire mesh to protect from predators but wanted to add screen because the bugs are so bad here. I have read and heard mosquitos don't bother tortoises but would like to prevent them from being in there. I don't believe it will effect the light that enters a whole lot but wanted to see if any one has experience with it. Thanks

 

[ZEROPILOT]

Welcome!
How about instead of screen, using 1/2" hardware "cloth"? It's a steel mesh. Easy to cut. Allows UVB and is many times sturdier than screening. Bugs will not bother him at all. Ants are your only concern.
I also live in Florida. I have open still water pools for my tortoises and no mosquitos.
South Eastern part.
I have a new video up on YOUTUBE: "Redfoot enclosure Florida style"
You may find some tips there with housing Redfoot outside in our climate.

 

[Jaxtortoise]

Thanks I will watch the videos. I guess if the bugs wont bother I will go with just the mesh.

 

[Gillian M]

Welcome to the forum!

Please read the "Beginners Mistakes" Thread and the care sheets. There is a section on enclosures. This would help you.

And do not forget to post pics of your tort as well as his/her enclosure.

 

[wellington]

Screen blocks a lot of the needed UVB. I would go with what was suggested above.

 

[Jaxtortoise]

Thank you for the info.