I have an alligator snapping turtle (Macroclemys Temminckii) who is around 3 1/2 inches right now. Obviously eventually I'm going to have to set up a much, much larger enclosure for him. Ideally, I'd like to set up an outdoor pond for him. The only problem with that is I happen to live in southeastern Michigan, where (as you can assume) the winters can be pretty harsh. I have heard of people keeping common snappers (Chelydra Serpentina) and in outdoor ponds up here and just letting them hibernate as they are native, as well as certain other turtles. But I still can't find any information on whether or not alligator snappers hibernate? I don't believe we have them this far north (although I am CONSTANTLY hearing people say "alligator snapping turtle" when really it's just a common). Would I be able to set up an outdoor one for the summer, and build an indoor one for the winter? I have never actually had a pond before, so what would you guys recommend?
P.S. If things don't work out, I have a friend who lives down south in Georgia where they are native and has an outdoor pond.
P.S. If things don't work out, I have a friend who lives down south in Georgia where they are native and has an outdoor pond.