Tortloverr
Member
So, I'm new to this. i don't have a tortoise just yet, I'm trying to do all my research and have everything set up before so I won't put anymore stress on my future tortoise. I've decided on a Mediterranean (specifically a Russian or Hermann's) and have done a lot of research so I think I've got most of my information but still have a few questions. (There's a picture of my enclosure in the making which measures roughly 50" by 50")
First, when do these tortoises reach adulthood? I can't seem to find anything specific, other than I know a three year old is considered a "juvenile." Also, I know I've read that there is no such thing as an enclosure being too big, does this apply to babies as well as adults? Should I get something smaller for when he/she is small?
Second, I've read a lot of conflicting information on lighting (heating and UVB). I've purchased a few things but I'm not sure if they are necessary or if I will need something more or different. For day time, I bought a 100w ceramic heat emitter with a clip lamp and a 26 watt compact florescent bulb for UVB. For night time, I bought a night red 50w mini halogen bulb for heat. I've read that you don't need a heat lamp for night, but I've also read that babies will need the heat at night. I'm considering getting a mercury vapor bulb, the only thing keeping me away initially is price but I could work with it.
Third, Diet. I've read just about everything I can find on what they eat, so I think I've got a pretty good understanding. The issue is, we have a lawn service that takes care of our yard and we don't have any weeds. I've ordered some seeds of the weeds that are edible for them (sweet violet, goats beard, catsear, hawkbit, & chicory). Do you recommend trying to grow them in the enclosure or in pots? Any advice? I would hate to have to buy all of his food from the grocery store, I know that isn't extremely healthy for them.
Any other recommendation/question/advice is welcome! As I'm just getting started I could take all the advice I can get!
Thanks!
First, when do these tortoises reach adulthood? I can't seem to find anything specific, other than I know a three year old is considered a "juvenile." Also, I know I've read that there is no such thing as an enclosure being too big, does this apply to babies as well as adults? Should I get something smaller for when he/she is small?
Second, I've read a lot of conflicting information on lighting (heating and UVB). I've purchased a few things but I'm not sure if they are necessary or if I will need something more or different. For day time, I bought a 100w ceramic heat emitter with a clip lamp and a 26 watt compact florescent bulb for UVB. For night time, I bought a night red 50w mini halogen bulb for heat. I've read that you don't need a heat lamp for night, but I've also read that babies will need the heat at night. I'm considering getting a mercury vapor bulb, the only thing keeping me away initially is price but I could work with it.
Third, Diet. I've read just about everything I can find on what they eat, so I think I've got a pretty good understanding. The issue is, we have a lawn service that takes care of our yard and we don't have any weeds. I've ordered some seeds of the weeds that are edible for them (sweet violet, goats beard, catsear, hawkbit, & chicory). Do you recommend trying to grow them in the enclosure or in pots? Any advice? I would hate to have to buy all of his food from the grocery store, I know that isn't extremely healthy for them.
Any other recommendation/question/advice is welcome! As I'm just getting started I could take all the advice I can get!
Thanks!
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