active vs. old pyramiding?

[mini_max]

Hi, I am wondering if my baby Russian (guessing between 6 mo to a year) is pyramiding or if it is just the case that the contrast between his new growth and old is simply telling of sub-par care prior to us getting him in November.

What I mean is that his new growth, of which there is a lot, is very flat and smooth and there is barely a ridge at all between new scutes. But now as this new flat stuff grows the older parts of his shell seem a lot more raised by comparison.

So I guess my question is - if he was pyramiding right now, would it be the new scutes looking raised, or his old ones as I am describing. He is eating properly, more or less, has consistent 50-60 percent humidity, soaks almost daily and is so well hydrated he urinates purely liquid. He's also (finally) taken to his humid hide. I feel like there should be no reason for him to be actively pyramiding at present! I will post a pic as soon as he awakens.

 

[Yvonne G]

Instead of laying flat, the new growth would have an upwards tilt. Like the side of a mountain

 

[mini_max]

What do you think?

 

[Yvonne G]

Yeah...sorry to say, but it looks like pyramiding to me.

 

[mini_max]

Sigh. I kind of thought, because I see some pictures and the shells look so smooth and flat. So any advice on what now? I feel like we are doing all the right things. Is it possible things will turn around for him if he keeps getting proper care? He was purchased from a petsmart, so I don't think he had the best past.

 

[Yvonne G]

How much water do you pour over your wood chips? It may be that it's still too dry. Try covering the whole thing to keep the warm, moist air inside.

 

[mini_max]

There is just a thin layer over top of coir which I keep moist. A bit more chips in that spot just for the sake of it being less messy when the food and water dishes go in and out. I spray it down a couple times a day and use a watering can to keep the lower layers moist every few days. I wIll try keeping it moister. I finally built him a humid hide that he approves of and has just started using it today! He's spending a lot of time in there. Hopefully this will help. Should I soak him multiple times a day? Will that help?

 

[mini_max]

And yes, back on with the foil.

 

[Yvonne G]

Spraying usually isn't enough. You have to actually pour water over the substrate. Once a day soaking is enough.

 

[mini_max]

Yes, I do both, and will be more heavy handed with the watering can from now on. So in your opinion is his new growth pyramiding as well?

 

[Dizisdalife]

The new growth looks good. Your tortoise is very handsome. From the photo I can't tell if the pyramiding is continuing or not. Provide the best environment possible for your tortoise and in a few months you will have a much better idea of how it is progressing. It is easier to prevent pyramiding than to stop it once it has started.