Russian Roulette Roadway Rescue...

Cheryl Hills

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For Russians you should put some kind of barrier 12 inches or so under ground. They will dig under those landscaping timbers
 

AJK Aquaria

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For Russians you should put some kind of barrier 12 inches or so under ground. They will dig under those landscaping timbers

There is a narrow trench that was dug before setting the first 2 rows of timbers. Once the center is dug out and scaped, there will be roughly 7-8" of timber underground. Large stone will be in each corner to deter digging there. I'm not going any deeper.
 

AJK Aquaria

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So here's the enclosure. My solar powered electric charger arrived yesterday, and I'll get that up and running tonight. Gary spent most of yesterday and last night indoors due to heavy rains. I transplanted plantain, dandelion and some clover to allow some natural grazing. Half the enclosure was weed whacked severely. The hide is a 5 gallon bucket halved, and then slapped together to provide an overhang that covers the entry trench. I may be redoing this as I think the burrow section gets too damp after a heavy shower.

5VXmPOj.jpg


The main issue I'm having is his appetite. Basically not eating much at all. Along with the above mentioned weeds being offered(on a feeding dish and naturally growing) I tried what I had in the fridege- bok choy and mustard greens, along with Mazuri. He's had a few bites that we've seen. I'm hoping this is just him adjusting. He's very inquisitive, and does not have a fear of humans. I left the perimeter clear of plants and decor to allow him space to patrol the perimeter, which he does constantly.

I'd appreciate any feedback or suggestions. Thanks
 
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RosemaryDW

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With multiple changes in environment (from who knows where, to the road, to temporary quarters, and finally to this new but still being modified enclosure), I wouldn't worry that he's not eating much yet. You don't know what he was eating before either; it could have been something delicious but not very good for him. Something he wouldn't like to give up.

Actually, I would worry some simply because I'm a worrywort! But the rational side of my brain would tell me to be patient and give the tortoise more time to adjust. :)

Great looking enclosure!
 

AJK Aquaria

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Thanks Rosemary. Good points and kind of what I was thinking, but I'm an impatient person. I think it's this terrible state I live in...

Anyways, he definitely dined on the plantain and dandelion today. It was almost gone when I came home from work. Unless a colony of leaf cutter ants suddenly appeared, he had his first substantial meal in our care.

And I definitely want to add a small, low growing bush of some sort. Having only the hide and overhang as shade/shelter is not enough, IMO.
 

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