The turtle pond project.

All winter Eli and I had been working on a pond project, with a view to getting the turtles out of the aquarium and into the backyard. Unfortunately it took a lot of waiting for critical parts of the set up - things like the liner, the pump, the filter... - and we sadly lost Zoomy during that time. However, we persisted with the pond project and we eventually, after about 4 months of waiting, had all of the necessary elements to create and fill the pond for Swifty. Here are some photos of the final phases, long after I dug the hole and had the corrugated iron walls and front gate installed. 



Eli was a great little helper too, including selecting the log and rocks that we need to provide some habitat for Swifty and he absolutely wanted to be there as we filled the pond from our raintank for the very first time.



Finally, it was time to release Swifty into his new home. We were all very excited - not only does the pond give him more space for swimming, but there are heaps of opportunities for basking too...


Eli did the honours, placing Swifty down on a rock at the side of the pond, so he could have a look around and become familiar with his new surroundings...

It took him (Swifty) a long time to get comfortable - I actually think that he was just enjoying sitting on the hot rock - but with the crowd watching - including three of Eli's grandparents! - he eventually plunged into the water and began swimming around his new home.

 

Later that afternoon Swifty was out of the pond, exploring the land and sharing his new home with a cute little water dragon (who has also laid claim to this new territory).

It's been great since Swifty moved out - we now have more room for fish in our aquaria - but more importantly Swifty is much happier and healthier as he gets to bask, swim, walk and enjoy his new surroundings. Aside from our plan to get a few aquatic plants for Swifty to hide behind/eat, the turtle pond project has finally been accomplished!