Soft Shell? Opinions Please

[PepperJack]

I just added a top to my enclosure to keep humidity and temperature at proper levels for my Cherry Head hatchling (levels are sustained at 90ºF and humidity at 80%). This all being said I have noticed that my tortoise's shell is SLIGHTLY soft now and I am wondering if this is normal or how to fix it. Am I doing something wrong? I do a morning soak in his dish for about five minutes before I put his food in the enclosure (calcium supplement twice a week). I'm trying to avoid shell rot and keep him as gorgeous as ever. COMMENTS PLEASE!

 

[wellington]

How old is he? They are a little pliable for a short time, usually even after most are sold.
Also, to help prevent shell rot, specially with your species, keep the top layer of substrate dry. When wetting the substrate, do it in the corners, so the water dampens the bottom layers while keeping the top dry. Also, getting him outside for natural sunlight for a couple hours a day will help his shell. Just be sure to provide shade so he doesn't over heat.

 

[PepperJack]

That is good to know ... I didn't know to keep my top layers dry. His age is unknown, but he is only about 2.5 inches big ... maybe 3. I do let him roam my house or outside for about an hour a day when I get off work.