See through versus opaque sides

[lstadler]

I have been using a very large Tupperware semi-clear bin for my smaller turtles. I went to a reptile show this weekend and a vendor said it’s best to use a habitat with black or dark sides because the turtles feel safer. Then a woman said no, that’s she has been using clear-sided for 10 years and her turtles are happy. Which is the best?

 

[Len B]

I can't say it's better but I have used glass since the 1970s and never had a stressed out tortoise or one that constantly scratched at the glass trying to pass through it after the enclosure is set up proper. If tortoises have everything they require (heat, lighting,food and them feeling secure) they are more relaxed and content with their surroundings. Plus I want to observe them so I can see a change in their daily habits so I can fix a problem if one comes up.

 

[lstadler]

I can't say it's better but I have used glass since the 1970s and never had a stressed out tortoise or one that constantly scratched at the glass trying to pass through it after the enclosure is set up proper. If tortoises have everything they require (heat, lighting,food and them feeling secure) they are more relaxed and content with their surroundings. Plus I want to observe them so I can see a change in their daily habits so I can fix a problem if one comes up.

Thank you Turtulas-Len! Yes, I they have everything they need, and don't seem stressed at all, so I was not wanting to make that change just because one guy who says he's an expert says so!!