Russian Tort sleeps a lot!

[GeorgeFrancis]

My Russian tort, George, has been sleeping most of the day and I never have time to feed him or play with him. Is this normal? And if it is, do I need to do something? Thanks

-Xander

 

[Yvonne G]

Hi Xander:

I am of the school that thinks tortoises are not to be played with, but rather to be set up in a pleasant-looking, large and well-planted habitat to look at and enjoy.

Make sure (by using a thermometer or temp gun) that the temperatures all over the floor of the habitat are in the range they are supposed to be. Surely nothing less than about 70F for a full grown Russian tortoise. It should be about 80-85F on the other end, and about 100F directly under the light.

In the morning take the tortoise and put him under the light. Then go about your business of cleaning the greens and arranging them on the feeding station. After the tortoise has had a chance to warm up, about a half hour, put him in front of the food. He should eat. If he doesn't, there's something else wrong besides heat.

 

[GeorgeFrancis]

Thanks Yvonne G!

That's very helpful. Thanks