Red marks on shell - Russian Tortoise

[SLeese44]

Hi all

On Monday I noticed these red marks on my Russian Tortoise’s shell. Has anybody had any experience with similar marks or know what this may be and whether he needs to see a vet? Possibly bruised himself however the one on the bottom left seems to be changing in shape/expanding slightly (last photo is from Weds in comparison).

He has no red on his plastron, is eating and walking fine and otherwise seems his usual self but I am concerned about him so any help would be appreciated.

He has had two previous owners before me - I have had him for two years.

 

[The_Four_Toed_Edward]

I will tag @zovick here. Is there any chance that he has injured himself?

 

[zovick]

Hi all

On Monday I noticed these red marks on my Russian Tortoise’s shell. Has anybody had any experience with similar marks or know what this may be and whether he needs to see a vet? Possibly bruised himself however the one on the bottom left seems to be changing in shape/expanding slightly (last photo is from Weds in comparison).

He has no red on his plastron, is eating and walking fine and otherwise seems his usual self but I am concerned about him so any help would be appreciated.

He has had two previous owners before me - I have had him for two years.

I have no idea what would cause this type of red lesion; however, because it is very minimal and well differentiated, it does not appear to be from any type of disease process. It may just be a spot of highly vascularized new bone/shell growth.

Personally, I wouldn't be concerned about it. It will probably just go away in a few weeks or less.

 

[SLeese44]

Thanks both, it is possible he may have fallen on one of his rocks whilst climbing. I will keep an eye on them and fingers crossed they disappear.