How long do young tortoise's shells stay soft?

[SunnySideUp]

I was inspecting Pumpkin's plastron today and I noticed it had a little give to it. It certainly isn't mushy or transparent, and I know that juveniles are supposed to have flexible shells, but I was wondering how much give is considered normal. Also, how long until a tortoise's shell is its most rigid (like it would be in adulthood)? Thank you

 

[dmmj]

depends, shells harden over time, you don't have too worry about the shell unless it starts getting softer, it can take months even years.

 

[SunnySideUp]

Alright, I'll be sure to give his tummy a once-over after his daily soaks, which is usually when I inspect him anyway. His plastron doesn't feel weak, it just yields a little to pressure. Thank you for your response.

 

[dmmj]

no worries giving a little is normal, just check his shell like once a week, should be good.