Eastern Hermann's Tortoise Question

[LilGaylordGirl]

Hey guys! Long time no see! Quick update, Boggy is wonderful! Best investment ever!!! I do have a question about his behavior though. When I poke my head into his habitat and he's actually awake, he tends to like move his throat and front legs as if he's coughing. Is that normal? Or if not, what could be the problem? Oh and do tortoises make any kind of noise?

 

[Tidgy's Dad]

The leg movement is just him breathing. Tortoises do not have a muscular diaphragm so use their legs to pump their lungs, especially when excited or frightened.
Tortoises occasionally squeak when mating, and can hiss by compressing the lungs and forcing air out through the nares (nostrils). They can sneeze and fart, too.

 

[LilGaylordGirl]

Thank you! That clears things up a bit actually. I thought he was coughing, or something. Now since I know its normal I don't have to freak out!