It has finally come time for an upgraded "drinking fountain" so to speak for the Tropical Torts! After a few hours of research into homemade ponds I came up with my version revised for tortoise access.
First, draw out the shape in the dirt and start diggin!
The most time consuming but vitally important step in this process is grading out the dirt in the hole and making everything level. I originally planned to use a simple circular shape, but then I decided to change it to incorporate my homemade filter.
After that I removed the boards and graded out the dirt one final time.
Next, I added a layer of play sand to provide a smooth and protective surface for the pond liner.
Grade out the sand so that it is smooth and even in all places. Now it is time to add the pond liner.
Trim off any extra pieces and begin to bury the edges of liner around the perimeter of the pond.
Smooth out the liner as best as you can to remove creases. You won't be able to get all of them if you use an abnormal shape for the pond like I did.
Next, I added a layer of mortar around the perimeter of the pond and began to lay the blocks in place. An opening was left to allow the tortoises to enter to pond. I put Mexican beach pebbles into the mortar along the entrance.
More pictures of its final stages will come tomorrow!
First, draw out the shape in the dirt and start diggin!
The most time consuming but vitally important step in this process is grading out the dirt in the hole and making everything level. I originally planned to use a simple circular shape, but then I decided to change it to incorporate my homemade filter.
After that I removed the boards and graded out the dirt one final time.
Next, I added a layer of play sand to provide a smooth and protective surface for the pond liner.
Grade out the sand so that it is smooth and even in all places. Now it is time to add the pond liner.
Trim off any extra pieces and begin to bury the edges of liner around the perimeter of the pond.
Smooth out the liner as best as you can to remove creases. You won't be able to get all of them if you use an abnormal shape for the pond like I did.
Next, I added a layer of mortar around the perimeter of the pond and began to lay the blocks in place. An opening was left to allow the tortoises to enter to pond. I put Mexican beach pebbles into the mortar along the entrance.
More pictures of its final stages will come tomorrow!
