Plastic tub as turtle house~please answer?

Question

Im thinking of getting a box turtle, but don't want to spend $100s on the tank

Is it ok to just use one of those really big plastic tubs as long as it has proper heating, that would make it easier for me, and the turtle could have a bigger enclosure

Is this a good Idea, or am I just being cheap

Answer 1

My experience with the plastic Rubbermaid containers....
The turtle kept scratching at the plastic and it was driving me crazy, so I switched to an aquarium.

So they are cheap and it really depends on where you are going to put it in your house.

Just something to keep in mind.

Answer 2

I overwinter turtles in very super rubber made packing containers each and all of the time. not in basic terms is it ok - it is extra helpful than an aquarium. It supplies you plenty extra area and the glass can confuse the turtles and lead them to ask your self why they are able to't get out. This stresses them. The UV mild and warmth source won't soften the container except you get it dazzling onto the plastic. in case you place the tub outdoors with partial sunlight and coloration, you will not even ought to apply a UV mild. organic sunlight is plenty extra helpful for them. purchase the biggest container you may get - plenty extra not expensive than a tumbler aquarium - and a sturdy colored one (not see via.) the only undertaking you have is changing the water with this manner of vast container. shop it someplace the place you could quite drain the water with a hose and top off it. sturdy success to you and your turtle! :)

Answer 3

That is actually a really good idea. Those tubs are durable and are a lot easier to clean than a glass tank would be. It would also be a lot easier to move if you ever had to move from where you live at now. I am sure you have done some research about what the turtle would need once you get it but here is a site anyway. It seemed to have some good info about turtle habitat. Hope it helps...
http://www.anapsid.org/box.html

Answer 4

Actually the plastic tub would be a very good 'sleeping place' for your turtle, and also as a feeding space ... but turtles, especially box turtles are VERY SOCIAL animals with people, so please let him walk around out of the tub when you can keep an eye on him, and let him climb on you (lie down, because they don't climb all that well) ... and you will have a great friend for life.

Answer 5

This should only be a temporary home since it wouldn't give him much room.

Another possible solution (if you have a spare room or basement) is to get a kiddie pool (without the slide). A friend of mine that does herp rescues and is in a reptile club keeps several of hs turtles this way. You can build a taller "island" in the center and suspend a heat/UVB lamp over it, and the sides are tall enough they can't climb out. You can give them a soft substrate which allows them to dig (natural behavior) and sink a paint roller tray for drinking/soaking. I like these since they have a built in "ramp" with enough texture (the raised or grooved areas to remove excess paint) that allows the turtle to get in and out easily, yet it isn't deep enough to let them drown if you only fill it about an inch of water.

If that's not doable, you might check listings on aquabid, craigslist, or freecycle - you might be able to find a larger used tank more cheaply. Just be sure it holds water before you buy it. Another possible source is if you have an aquarium or reptile club near you. My local aquarium club holds auctions, some of which are open to the public. Fish, plants, invertebrates, and equipment are all sold, and sometimes you can get a real deal.

Good luck with your box turtle.


NOTE: I wouldn't put a heat lamp/pad where it touches or shines directly on plastic - if heated, it's possible that some plastics could melt and/ or give off noxious fumes.

Answer 6

a plastic tub probley isnt the best way to go... you can but a tank for less than 100 dollars trust me go to a pet store or sumthin they have them for cheap...










hope this helped!

Answer 7

DONT get a turtle.... I have a box turtle and its cute like the first day but it bites and any home you get it will smell worse than anything youve smelled before.... A BUNNY is definitly the way to go.... no regrets there.... REPLY!

Answer 8

thats actually a good idea as long as you let it out a bit with you watching every now and then
turtles make great pets, its good that your getting one!!

Answer 9

yes