Welcome!
I will let someone that knows more help you with where to get them.
As far as walking outside, as long you you know it is safe (pesticide free) they love it! They LOVE the natual sun light. They don't run quickly but can dig in a few minutes and the only way you can see them is if the dirt is messed up.. So you would want to keep a pretty close watch.. They could be under ground asleep for hours before coming back up..
Also, ours are hatchlings and we worry about other animals (like birds) snatching them away.. I've heard that raccoons, groundhogs, squirrels could all be potential predators.. eek!
If you could make one out of a dog crate or something to take inside when not in use, you wouldn't have to worry about losing him.
Oh - - that is great idea....... I just keep hearing that they need sunlight and grass and stuff....... how would they get that in dog or cat crate???
Oh - - that is great idea....... I just keep hearing that they need sunlight and grass and stuff....... how would they get that in dog or cat crate???
Well, The best I can figure it out- you would create an awesome little home for him (like what you did inside) and when you went outside you would have to put him in it.. At least it should be easier for you to store and move it around..
Just remember (or know..) that they shouldn't be able to see the outside or they will go nuts with trying to get out.. I've seen pictures of turtles climbing fences and stuff. Crazy little buggers. haha
So using bamboo or something like it to block the view around the whole area is best.. It doesn't have to be too tall, just enough so they can't see "the other side of the fence" (because you know the grass is always greener on the other side, even when it isn't.. haha)
You would want to have a tray (even the one that comes with, I would think it ok) so you know lil mister wont be able to get out that way..
I haven't done thins yet, we are trying to figure the outside out now that we have the inside done, or almost.
I hope that helps you!!!
Let me know how it goes and what you decide to do!
I bring mine outside everyday that Vermont weather permits I have an area that's fenced in but I keep an eye on them and when I take both of the boys out I usually have my boyfriend come out with me because they move pretty quickly for being considered slow animals you would be surprised at how fast you could lose one. here is that link I found super informative http://www.tortoiseforum.org/thread-45180.html
here is an idea for a tortoise table with a cover to avoid cats getting in (and in my case eating my torts food ) this one has two sides as i have two male russians