Young Redfoot enclosure.

[Christiaan]

Hey everyone I have 2 young Redford one is about 3 inches and the other is about 2 I have em set up in a concrete mixing tub outdoors for the time being but was wondering if I can add anything to make their enclosure more suitable.

I also have a space in my backyard that I was going to use and build an outdoor pen but I'm not sure if they are big enough or how to secure it from predators.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Yelloweyed]

For some great ideas, check this link

http://www.tortoiseforum.org/index.php?threads/RedFoot-Enclosure-Update.126407/

 

[Christiaan]

Thanks for the link!
Here's a better pic of the space I plan to use.

 

[ZEROPILOT]

Is that a Florida yard?
It looks just like mine!
That should be a nice spot. It has shade for some of the day.
Just make it as large as you can.

 

[Christiaan]

I am located in south Florida. I just don't know how I would predator proof the enclosure

 

[ZEROPILOT]

With a framed hardware cloth top with or without hinges.

 

[Christiaan]

Any suggestions if I would want to put some plants. Also any links as to how to build the top?

 

[ZEROPILOT]

Sheets of plexiglass cut to fit have been used. A simple framework made of wooden strips with chicken wire stapled to it would work. I have plastic netting for a roof. My pen is 7 feet tall so that I have room to walk around inside and work.
I have a top because of cats pooping every where.
How large is your tortoise?
I have had six or seven inchers live outdoors with no tops.
Let me post some photos of pens.
As you can see, the first photo/pen has been taken over by a rabbit....

 

[Christiaan]

My torts are still juveniles so I would need to protect them from avian predators for the most part. But you have some pretty practical pens set up that I'll probably utilize in the future.

 

[ZEROPILOT]

My torts are still juveniles so I would need to protect them from avian predators for the most part. But you have some pretty practical pens set up that I'll probably utilize in the future.

Yes. And raccoons.

 

[Christiaan]

Would you recommend keeping them in the tub I have now until they grow larger? Or would you recommend building a permanent enclosure?

 

[ZEROPILOT]

I don't like those mixing tubs. For one, they aren't large enough and the sides aren't tall enough. There is also the front edge. The edge that slopes. Redfoot are very accomplished climbers.
I'd use a $10 "kiddie pool"( if there is enough room.) Toss in some bark, mulch and soil, plants and some flower pots laying on their sides. I'd also drill some small holes around it about 1/4 of the way up in case it rains on it, there will be no flooding.
As for a top for a kiddie pool you'll have to get creative.
Maybe a big, salvaged window screen?

 

[kathyth]

This is something we did for Redfoots hatchlings. For 2 juveniles the same idea works, but much bigger. This was used for a couple hours of sunshine.

 

[Christiaan]

That enclosure is something that I was thinking of and it seems impenetrable!

 

[Christiaan]

I haven't thought of a kiddie pool but if I can find one with cartoon characters or princesses that idea seems solid and would allow my torts more Room to roam.