How to Build a Turtle House

Land turtles need a den for sleeping and hiding.

Pet turtles are either aquatic (they live in water) or terrestrial (they live on land). Aquatic turtles generally spend most of their time in the water and sleep under stones,whereas terrestrial turtles and tortoises have land habitats much like other land creatures. These habitats should include a "house" for sleeping and hiding. Build your turtle a simple house of cardboard to give it a den of its own.

Things You'll Need

• Cardboard box/Cardboard
• Scissors
• Measuring tape
• Glue/Rubber cement

Instructions

1. Use or build a box that is roughly twice as large as the turtle itself. Make sure that the turtle has plenty of room to enter and box and turn around. If you're using an existing cardboard box, cut out one side so there's an opening for the turtle.

2. Build the turtle a box if you don't have an adequate-sized cardboard box. Measure your turtle's length and width, and double them to decide on the dimensions of your box.

3. Cut out pieces of cardboard per the dimensions you came up with. Use heavy-duty cardboard so that it lasts. Cut a roof, two sides and a back. Cut the sides and back to equal heights -- tall enough to comfortably fit the turtle without rubbing or catching.

4. Glue the pieces together to construct the turtle house. Use crazy glue or rubber cement for sturdy construction, and allow the structure to dry for at least 12 hours before you put it in with your turtle.

Tips & Warnings

• Research your turtle carefully in regard to dietary and water needs. Some land turtles still require a large source of water.

• Terrestrial turtles can harm themselves in glass aquariums by trying to get out.

References

• Avian and Exotic Animal Care: Husbandry of Terrestrial Turtles and Tortoises
• Melissa Kaplan's Herp Care Collection: Housing for Your Box Turtles