Donate Now

Water Pavilion for Tortoises

A pavilion will create shade that will keep a water dish out of direct sunlight no matter where the sun is shining. It will also provide another place for the tortoise to rest in the shade. This is valuable if your yard has little shade elsewhere.

Donate Now
Water-Pavilion

Frame and Cover

Pavilion Design Options

There is more than one way to make a pavilion. What is important is the minimum of 4′ x 4′ dimensions of the frame and the relatively short above ground portion of the legs-8″ to 10″. These dimensions will ensure that the dish is shaded despite changes in the angle of the sun through the seasons. The cover should not be solid because that traps hot air.

Materials for two types of pavilions, a wood frame with a bamboo reed cover and a PVC pipe frame with shade cloth cover.For a wood frame use 2 x 2s, 5, 4′ lengths for the top and 4, 14″ lengths for the legs. For the cover use a piece of reed fencing that is 5′ x 5′ and 4 small screw-in “L” hooks for the legs. The hooks can be twisted to hold down the cover or release it for access to the water dish.

  • Minimum 4′ x 4′ frame
  • 8″–10″ leg height
  • Frame Dimensions Adequate

Construction Steps

PVC Pavilion Guide

For a PVC pipe frame see the other side of this sheet for materials. After assembling the PVC pipe frame use several locking ties to attach one side of the shade cloth to the frame and on the opposite side allow several inches to hang over the frame to wrap around the 6th 4′ length of pipe until the overhang is 61/2″ to 7″. Secure with locking ties. This overhanging portion and the other two sides will not be attached to the top to allow you to fold back the cover and tend to the water dish. Fill the pipe that holds down the overhanging shade cloth with rebar or other heavy material and cap both ends

For stability, the legs of both kinds of pavilion should be buried in the ground leaving 8-10 above ground. For important information about the dish size and placing and securing it read the section on WATER in the Tortoise Group Booklet, Desert Tortoises Adoption and Care

  • Assemble PVC frame, attach cloth.
  • Bury legs, secure dish well.
Water-Pavilion-2

Requirements

Materials For PVC Pipe Frame

Materials for a PVC Pipe Frame include six 4′ PVC pipes, shade cloth, locking ties, rebar for weight, and caps—designed to create a stable, shaded tortoise water pavilion.

  • 3/4" Tee S x S x S (slip fit, no threads) For cross piece (2)
  • 3/4" x 3/4" x 1/2" For corners (4)
  • 3/4" Slip Caps For hanging bar (2)
  • 3/4" x 3/4" Male Adapter For slipping on the legs (4)
  • Shade Cloth, 50% "shade factor"
  • Safety Gear (as applicable)
  • Locking Ties (8)
  • Pipe: Schedule 40, 3/4" 5, 4' lengths for the top 4, 14" lengths for legs

Frequently Asked Questions

Essential Water Dish FAQs Explained

Discover answers to common questions about desert tortoise water dishes. Learn key guidelines for placement, maintenance, and design to ensure their hydration, comfort, and well-being.

1. What size should the water dish be for a desert tortoise?

It should be shallow (1–2 inches deep) and wide enough for the tortoise to climb in and soak comfortably, typically 12–18 inches across.

Refill daily with fresh water, as desert tortoises need consistent access, especially in hot climates, though they may not drink every day.

Avoid moving it—reseating is difficult. Choose a permanent spot, flush and fill with a hose or bucket instead.

No, green algae naturally oxygenate water and are safe. Clean with water only, no bleach or cleansers.

Put it under a shaded pavilion or natural cover, away from direct sun, to keep water cool and encourage use.

Bury it slightly into the ground so it’s level and snug, preventing tipping. Check the Tortoise Group Booklet for details.