Wall Types

• Turtles can climb, but a perimeter of fencing about one foot in height will keep them contained and prevent escape. Some fencing options include chicken wire, wooden fencing, chain link fencing or a larger pond liner with a raised wall outside of the smaller pond liner. Piles of rocks can also be used to line the pond, as long as the rocks are stable and cannot fall into the pond or onto the turtle or turtles. Whichever type of fencing is used, it should extend about one foot below the soil because turtles could dig their way under fences.
  
  

Predators

• While nearly any shallow wall will keep turtles in a turtle pond, predators such as raccoons, foxes, coyotes and even the family dog or cat can climb over these fences. To keep your turtles completely protected in an outdoor pond, you can either bring your turtles inside at night, when most predators are looking for food, or you can place chicken wire or mesh over the top of the pond.
  
  

Dangers

• Wire mesh should not be used close to the ground, as turtles could get their claws stuck in it or hurt their noses if they rub their noses on it. When protecting against predators, screen or mesh placed over top of the pond should not be too thick. Screen can block out UVB rays from the sun, which is necessary for the turtle's health and development.
  
  

Island

• Even though preventing your turtle's escape is important, the turtle must be allowed to leave the water periodically so it does not drown. The turtle must also be able to bask in the sunlight to warm up, and to fully dry out so it doesn't develop skin or shell problems. This can easily be achieved by creating an island in the middle of the pond using a floating piece of wood, or by moving the fence beyond the perimeter of the pond so your turtle has a free run of the surrounding area.