- Joined
- Jul 26, 2010
- Messages
- 202
Those of you who read my introduction post know that I have never owned a tortoise myself, but I loved interacting with them and caring for them at the zoo I interned at. I'm getting ready to buy a Russian hatching of my very own
( ) and am making a shopping list!
Since everyone here really cares about torts, and really knows their stuff, I'd like your input! What is my list missing? Is there a place you recommend I go to buy my supplies? Is there a place I should avoid? Are there brands you prefer above others? Lay it all on me!
My list (so far):
-Opaque storage tub (for an enclosure--plan to upgrade as the baby grows) with ROUND corners, or I will have to tape them off so he doesn't climb and flip!
-Thermometers (2, one for the basking end and one for the non-heated end)
-Hygrometer (? I don't think humidity will be a problem, but is it something I should monitor? If so, what range is acceptable?)
-Heat lamp (ceramic? I confess, though we use lamps in our barn with our farm animals in the winter, I am nervous about one in the house. What is an acceptable wattage, and how should it be set up safely?)
-Light lamp (or will the light in my room be enough?)
-substrate (what is the "best" kind?--I realize there are varying opinions. Also, how important is it to keep it moist for a Russian hatchling? How often should I spray it?)
-water dish
-food area(s)--(I've heard it said that a tile works well for this? Is one spot ok or should I offer food in different places?)
-hides (how many?)
-plants! (good ideas for a couple just to get me started?)
-food for my baby! Mazuri, and what else?
( ) and am making a shopping list!
Since everyone here really cares about torts, and really knows their stuff, I'd like your input! What is my list missing? Is there a place you recommend I go to buy my supplies? Is there a place I should avoid? Are there brands you prefer above others? Lay it all on me!
My list (so far):
-Opaque storage tub (for an enclosure--plan to upgrade as the baby grows) with ROUND corners, or I will have to tape them off so he doesn't climb and flip!
-Thermometers (2, one for the basking end and one for the non-heated end)
-Hygrometer (? I don't think humidity will be a problem, but is it something I should monitor? If so, what range is acceptable?)
-Heat lamp (ceramic? I confess, though we use lamps in our barn with our farm animals in the winter, I am nervous about one in the house. What is an acceptable wattage, and how should it be set up safely?)
-Light lamp (or will the light in my room be enough?)
-substrate (what is the "best" kind?--I realize there are varying opinions. Also, how important is it to keep it moist for a Russian hatchling? How often should I spray it?)
-water dish
-food area(s)--(I've heard it said that a tile works well for this? Is one spot ok or should I offer food in different places?)
-hides (how many?)
-plants! (good ideas for a couple just to get me started?)
-food for my baby! Mazuri, and what else?