desert tortoises acting aggressively

janetm

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Joined
Sep 23, 2020
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19
Location (City and/or State)
Phoenix AZ
I have a pair of desert tortoises, both 19 yrs old, both (I've been told) female. There has been some aggression in the past, usually in spring just after they waken. But this year, I have one that is determined to turn the other over (and has succeeded). I've read some info suggesting hunger or boredom. Nothing has changed in their enclosure or in feeding habits, both eat well. Any ideas on what could be going on?
 

KarenSoCal

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Low desert 50 mi SE of Palm Springs CA
Not hunger or boredom. Rivalry! Tortoises are solitary animals that don't need, like, or want friends.

My guess is that they are now fully mature. Neither one wants another girl around in case a cute guy strolls by.

They need to be separated before injury or death comes to one of them.
 

janetm

New Member
Joined
Sep 23, 2020
Messages
19
Location (City and/or State)
Phoenix AZ
Not hunger or boredom. Rivalry! Tortoises are solitary animals that don't need, like, or want friends.

My guess is that they are now fully mature. Neither one wants another girl around in case a cute guy strolls by.

They need to be separated before injury or death comes to one of them.
Thank you. Having read more on the issue, everyone agrees with separation. We are making plans to divide their habitat with some type of fencing. Hoping both will be happier alone, with a bit less space.
 
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