I haven't officially introduced myself yet...sorry...I'll getting that eventually. I have extensive experience with hibernating aquatic turtles of various species. I recently set up an outdoor enclosure for rescued Russians. I rescued 3 females (2 are 8+ scl and 1 is 6 inches) and one 5 inch male. The females section is 16x16 ft and the males section is 8x16 ft. The male was in bad shape but is improving and gaining weight beautifully every day. Due to the crazy winters we've been having I will not risk letting them hibernate outside.
I've searched and found some excellent info on this forum... But have a question or two.
Fridge set at 45f ... Each turtle in its own disinfected plastic storage bin.
What substrate do you use?
Do you cover them with substrate?
Is the substrate moist or dry?
Do you check on them or just leave them alone?
Do you worry about air circulation...refreshing?
What are general ambient temps when Russians start to think about hibernation? When do I bring them in to make sure their gutts empty properly?
I will be using the fridge for 3toed box turtles as well. They've hibernated outside for 3 yrars now but the fluctuating winter temps is just too all over place to allow them to hibernate outside anymore.
I've searched and found some excellent info on this forum... But have a question or two.
Fridge set at 45f ... Each turtle in its own disinfected plastic storage bin.
What substrate do you use?
Do you cover them with substrate?
Is the substrate moist or dry?
Do you check on them or just leave them alone?
Do you worry about air circulation...refreshing?
What are general ambient temps when Russians start to think about hibernation? When do I bring them in to make sure their gutts empty properly?
I will be using the fridge for 3toed box turtles as well. They've hibernated outside for 3 yrars now but the fluctuating winter temps is just too all over place to allow them to hibernate outside anymore.