Bohr
New Member
I want to build an outdoor pen for my 2.5-year-old sulcata tortoise, which weighs about 30 pounds. I have 45 acres of land with several potential locations in mind. Keep in mind both will be temporary as I intend to expand the living space to many acres as he grows.
1. Location One:
This spot is 50-100 feet behind my house. It features a large cement pipe tunnel that could be modified with a door to create a safe night enclosure. This tunnel was originally used by the previous owner to house Great Pyrenees dogs and is not part of any drainage system. The main concern is the ledge near the tunnel. While I wouldn't need to include the top portion behind the tunnel, there is plenty of great grass behind it. The advantage of this location is that it's easy to see the tortoise from my house.
2) Location 2:
This area is around a mini shed currently used for garden tools. I eventually want to move the tortoise here, as there are 2-3 acres he could roam as he grows older. The downsides are the garden, which requires ensuring all plants are safe for a sulcata, and the increased proximity to potential predators. These include bald eagles, foxes, coyotes, opossums, raccoons, minks, bobcats, and occasional farm dogs. However, my own dogs love the tortoise and would likely protect him if they are around.
I'd love to know what people think! Thanks for your time!
1. Location One:
This spot is 50-100 feet behind my house. It features a large cement pipe tunnel that could be modified with a door to create a safe night enclosure. This tunnel was originally used by the previous owner to house Great Pyrenees dogs and is not part of any drainage system. The main concern is the ledge near the tunnel. While I wouldn't need to include the top portion behind the tunnel, there is plenty of great grass behind it. The advantage of this location is that it's easy to see the tortoise from my house.
2) Location 2:
This area is around a mini shed currently used for garden tools. I eventually want to move the tortoise here, as there are 2-3 acres he could roam as he grows older. The downsides are the garden, which requires ensuring all plants are safe for a sulcata, and the increased proximity to potential predators. These include bald eagles, foxes, coyotes, opossums, raccoons, minks, bobcats, and occasional farm dogs. However, my own dogs love the tortoise and would likely protect him if they are around.
I'd love to know what people think! Thanks for your time!