Hello all! I am the new caretaker of a 6 y/o male sonoran tort. I took him in when the original owner was forced to move because of a family emergency. So he is a temporary guest, 6 months to year. I didn't realize how much fun these guys can be, (so curious!) and am glad I found this forum since I have become obsessed with my new house guest.
My big concern is over a burrow. I have a very safe yard for the fella, but not one where he can really build his own burrow. I have crafted a burrow for him using cinder blocks to make one wall next to where 2 brick walls meet, sand ground and the roof is made of wood. My worry is it's too hot. I have read temperatures above 90 degrees can cause brain damage! I live in Phoenix Az and it's HOT right now. Yes I know I am suppose to put earth on his home to insulate but like I mentioned his arrival was a surprise and it's not permanent. SO, how do i gauge the heat in the shade? I usually trust nature and feel like he will move to a cooler spot if it is to hot in his burrow. He doesnt seem brain damaged? and what about humidity? how do I make some?
Can someone please give me the reality of this situation? Before his burrow he kinda dug himself under a plant, now he does use the burrow.
I really want to be a responsible tortoise owner and thanks in advance for any advice!
My big concern is over a burrow. I have a very safe yard for the fella, but not one where he can really build his own burrow. I have crafted a burrow for him using cinder blocks to make one wall next to where 2 brick walls meet, sand ground and the roof is made of wood. My worry is it's too hot. I have read temperatures above 90 degrees can cause brain damage! I live in Phoenix Az and it's HOT right now. Yes I know I am suppose to put earth on his home to insulate but like I mentioned his arrival was a surprise and it's not permanent. SO, how do i gauge the heat in the shade? I usually trust nature and feel like he will move to a cooler spot if it is to hot in his burrow. He doesnt seem brain damaged? and what about humidity? how do I make some?
Can someone please give me the reality of this situation? Before his burrow he kinda dug himself under a plant, now he does use the burrow.
I really want to be a responsible tortoise owner and thanks in advance for any advice!