twebb88
New Member
- Joined
- Oct 16, 2016
- Messages
- 14
Read my post above about lighting. You were advised incorrectly.
Misting alone does not provide enough moisture. You need to be able to tip water into an earth like substrate and give it a good mix with your hands so it's evenly damp (not wet) This provides the basic humidity. Spraying helps to maintain it after that. Periodically you need to add more water to the substrate.I also have a uv bulb I mist the substrate every morning and evening
An adorable little tort! GOD bless.View attachment 190324
He/she is a testudo graeco from turkey. I live in Guildford SURREY uk it's quite mild here however his/her viv is a constant 28/29°c and one end and 20/25°c another
Hi Linda.Hello and welcome from Kent, UK. We've had our Greek for over 46 years
To answer your question, it's not unusual for tortoises to dig and hide away. Some do it more than others.
Next I need to direct you to information on care for your Greek
Please read the following:
Greek Tortoise Care
http://www.tortoiseforum.org/threads/greek-tortoise-testudo-graeca-care-sheet-overview.87146/
Beginner Mistakes
http://www.tortoiseforum.org/threads/beginner-mistakes.45180/
I have a couple of immediate concerns about the enclosure which are addressed in the threads above. Your setup suggests that you have been given some outdated information about care.
1. Your substrate is too dry and is not suitable to hold moisture and create the humidity that is needed. Orchid bark or coco coir are much better
2. You have a red heat lamp. These aren't recommended as they colour decor red. Torts love red foods (even though fruits aren't good for them) and frequently try to eat tan decor and substrate coloured by the lights. You should use a plain reflector bulb for basking.
I will post in more detail about lighting next.
Generally yes. It needs to be 35C directly under the basking lamp thoughHi Linda.
Is 28-29 deg C warm enough for a tort? I believe not.
During Winter, what would be the minimum temp that a tort living indoors would be able to put up with?Generally yes. It needs to be 35C directly under the basking lamp though
The average UK home will be plenty warm enough. The lighting will keep it right by day. Overnight, temperatures should stay above 16C.During Winter, what would be the minimum temp that a tort living indoors would be able to put up with?
Thanks a lot your usual help.
Thank you!The average UK home will be plenty warm enough. The lighting will keep it right by day. Overnight, temperatures should stay above 16C.