Question about winter weather

[bmt123]

When should I bring in my eastern box turtles I live In nc

 

[StudentoftheReptile]

RE: Question

I have a friend in NC who keeps his boxies outside yearround. Granted, his enclosure is spacious and allows for burrowing.

 

[bmt123]

RE: Question

I dont think I have enough experience

 

[fbsmith3]

RE: Question

I bring mine in when nights fall below 50 F. I bring her back out on sunny days that will get to at least 70.

 

[Saloli]

RE: Question

I would also suggest bringing them in when temps fall below 50 or so. That is if you are not going to allow dormancy his year. Which will require you to maintain spring/summer temps and lighting 12-14 hours of daylight and a UVB lamp.

 

[StudentoftheReptile]

RE: Question

I dont think I have enough experience

Describe your set-up. How large is the enclosure and how many turtles are we talking about here?

All he does is provide a flowerbed-type area that contains at least several inches of mulch, dirt and soil. The turtles just nestle/bury themselves completely in it when it gets cold. Every spring, he walks out and one day, he'll see little heads and the tops of shells begin to emerge.

He's even had them breed from time to time.

 

[bmt123]

RE: Question

It is an eight by eight enclosure for my two turtles but one is sick so she is out of the option

 

[Laura]

RE: Question

if the sick one is with the other, I'd bring them both inside with heat and lights for winter. dont' let either go to sleep.

 

[fbsmith3]

RE: Question

if the sick one is with the other, I'd bring them both inside with heat and lights for winter. dont' let either go to sleep.

I agree, you do not need to hibernate. Once you learn more you can still decide to hibernate next year.

 

[Saloli]

If they are sick don't let them go dormant. Keep them active.

 

[bmt123]

Thanks for the advice I am keeping them active this winter