Donny in his new shelter updated 8/6/02
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I found some slabs of wood in my back yard, it was some wood that was already breaking apart so I was able to put some nails and I was able to create this little home for my ornate box turtle. as soon as I placed it in the enclosure Donny was already exploring his new home. Below are some pictures and steps on how I built my outdoor enclosure
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Final Product updated 8/6/02
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this is the last step in my out door enclosure
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Step 2 updated 8/6/02
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Step1: Barriers- I had to make the enclosure escape proof, and make sure the dogs couldnt dig in. I started off by digging down about a foot deep, then I placed wood in the trenches. I finally stapled chicken wire to the wood.
Step 2: water dish and soil- I dug a hole the same size as the plant bottom saucer I had bought for about .69 at my local Home Depot and I had also bought a pavement stone to make some really dry area. after I did that I had to place the soil into the barrier gaps and around the water dish and around the stone. I had also used a sideways plant pot with part cut out, which I placed some loose soil for digging.
Step 3: Planting and toppings- I went to Home Depot and bought 2-Hibiscus plants for .69, 2- Liorope(sp?)or monkey grass for .69 and 5-moss rose plants for $.88. all the plants were researched to be edible. I also placed a fern in there for shade as well as the palm in the left corner for the topping I added some Peat Moss which I also bought at Home Depot for $1.99 a bag.
Step 4: ornaments and whatever works- for this step you should wait until you know that the last steps were done properly(what I mean is that there havent been any escaped and everything is convenient). what I did for an ornament is that wood house I recently built and the white plastic sheets I have over the plants which will block some sun since that plant is wearing away. also you can add some more ppants which help make more shade since ornate box turtles dont really stay in the sun all day.
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Ok, I recently gave Donny to a family-freind in June 2003, it was a great year learning about donny and growing with him. I've learned how dog-like a turtle can be. He just was great, he used to rush to me every time I stepped in his pen and checked me for food. Unfortunately i recently moved and dont have room to house a box turtle.
This page will mainly stay up for enclosure help mainly for all you other turtle fans.
Thank you donny for all the experience you have given me you will be missed( I hope you have a better life with that female ornate box turtle )
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