russian tortoise hibernation

[tortoishell]

I have read that Russian tortoises need about two, maybe three weeks of fasting/ defecating before they hibernate. However, if the temperature is low, then how will they digest their food? I saw an article saying that they need ambient temps of around 80 degrees Fahrenheit to digest their food.
Also, how will I make sure that his intestine is empty?
What temperature does the hibernation box need to be? Sorry for all the questions!

 

[JoesMum]

Hi

The wind down is gradual. In that 2 week period, they don't eat so there's no food to digest.

You must soak every day during the wind down which will keep your tort hydrated and encourage it to poop anything left

For hibernation to be successful temperatures must be around 5C (41F) constantly and never below 0C (32F) or above 10C (50F)

 

[Jodie]

Toms response in this thread will answer your questions.
http://www.tortoiseforum.org/thread...ernate-everyones-thoughts-please.16440/page-2