Beaks

[Sunshine]

Hi all, when do tortoises grow beaks? Herbie is 5/6 but still isn't showing any signs?

 

[dmarcus]

He has one, its just not over grown and thats a good thing...

 

[tortuga_please]

If they 'grow' one it means that they aren't wearing it down enough or they're getting too much protein, the fact that he doesn't have excess growth is a good thing. Certain species (like snappers) have a more pronounced one, if that's what you mean

 

[Sunshine]

Ah thanks both, that's really helpful! His face is still smooth and was just wondering how it compared but now I understand! I thought it was an age thing until now, he loves his cuttlebone that's for sure

 

[bettinge]

Yes, a beak is not a good thing. They wear down naturally, but may not do so eating soft foods. Beaks can easily be trimmed by a novice.

 

[siwash]

set your food on a rough rock.. that's what I do.. I watch my guy eat and almost every other bite he's inadvertently biting into the rock and thereby wearing down and potential beak growth... my guy is 4 and no beak at all

 

[Sunshine]

Thankyou ... will definitely do that. He loves biting rocks so maybe that would explain it ;-)