How to Inexpensively Build an Outdoor Habitat for Red Slider Turtles

Housing red slider turtles can be quite costly. This is especially true if your turtle is big or you have more than one turtle. As a general rule, the habitat should have 10 gallons per inch of your turtle. Some people would rather keep them in smaller tanks, especially if they only need a temporary habitat for their pet. However, if you are looking to build a permanent tank for your turtle, you need to make sure that they have enough space to move around. Here is how you can inexpensively build an outdoor habitat for your red slider turtle.

Set up the kiddie pool outside your home under a tree or bush, so as not get fully exposed to the sun. A portion of the pool must be shaded, while a portion is well lit by the sun for the Red Slider's basking. Check the measurements of the pool and make sure that it has the capacity to hold the number of gallons required, depending on the length of your turtle.

Add gravel and stones into the pool to add levels to your turtle's habitat. Pour in the dechlorinated water. The pool should ideally be one foot deep for temporary habitats, and two feet deep if you intend to keep your turtle outdoors for an entire year.

Gather more large stones on the side of the tank exposed under the sunlight, until the stones break the water's surface. This will provide an area for your turtle to bask in the sun. Make sure that it does not take up 1/3 of the water surface area.

Install a cheap filter system for your outdoor pond to make sure that the water stays clean, and your turtle will not get contaminated with any bacteria that ends up in the water.

Use your chicken wire to cover the pond on top to prevent predators and birds from going near the area. You can also use the same material to build a fence around the habitat.