How to Add a Dry Area for a Turtle Tank

Even turtles that live primarily in water appreciate having a dry area where they can bask and warm themselves. There are several ways to incorporate both dry and wet spaces inside one turtle tank. Before you get started, take into consideration placement of your lighting and electrical components. A water section of a tank will require a filter and oxygenation system, and a dry area should be warmed with an aquatic lamp.

  1. Landscaping

    • One of the most efficient ways to create a turtle tank with both wet and dry space is to design the original tank setup with both components. This can be accomplished by outfitting the tank interior with different elevations of rock and aquatic substrate materials, such as sand, gravel or moss. Be sure the substrate is large enough that a turtle cannot swallow it and choke, or small enough that it can pass unobstructed through the turtle's system. When water is added to this set-up, some portions of the tank̵7;s landscape will be elevated and out of the water, creating dry spaces, while other elements will be underwater, creating interesting swimming and hiding spots for your turtles.

    Floats

    • Many pet supply stores carry ̶0;floating̶1; turtle docks made from plastic-coated high-density foam material. Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, these floats typically have suction cups along one side that allow the float to be anchored to the side of the turtle tank. By placing the float even with the water level, turtles have an easily-accessible dry surface onto which they can climb.

    Bridges

    • Turtle bridges are freestanding structures typically made from simulated rock or cast clay. Available in a variety of sizes, these structures comprise a flat surface supported by angled steps on either side. If you place the bridge in the center of the turtle tank and cover it at least halfway with water, turtles can access the dry area of the bridge by climbing the stairs to the bridge platform. This system creates wet, dry and semi-dry spaces for turtles, and many turtles enjoy laying on the steps partially submerged in water.

    Other Options

    • You don̵7;t have to buy expensive materials from a pet store to give your turtles appropriate dry spaces. If you have a water tank and are looking for a simple and cost-effective way to add a dry section, visit your local home improvement center and purchase several flat landscaping river rocks, paver stones or bricks, and submerge them in the tank, stacking them so they slope upward until a portion is above the water line. Use smooth materials to avoid potential damage to your turtle's shell, advises reptile author David T. Kirkpatrick. If you use this approach, make sure the materials are well placed and secure so they won̵7;t fall on your turtles.