Scollins17

New Member
Joined
Oct 13, 2019
Messages
11
Location (City and/or State)
Gilbert AZ
Hi Everyone I have a 2 year old Marginated tortoise.
Has always been very active. I went on vacation for 4 days, came back and the last couple days he wont come out of his shell for anything. Wont bask, eat or drink. I left him a whole head of lettuce and a full dish of water. He ate most of the lettuce. He also has a basking light on a timer. Just digs a hole and wont come out. I saw him pee once and he defacated only one time.

Did I overfeed him? Is he just constipated?

-normally feed him dark mixed spring greens, herbs, weeds, and pellets. Occasionally give him lettuce.
-His enclosure is big enough for his size. Upgraded couple months ago.
- Substrate cocnut coir and cypress
- shallow water dish
-Basking bulb makes warm side about 93-98.
-cool side 78
-Night time temps are low 70s
-humidity is 85+/- at night and 65ish during day.

He is soaking in shallow, warm water right now. And normally after a few minutes tries to get out of the bin, but is just sitting there this time. He did poke his legs and head out a bit.

I've never seen this behavior from him before and am worried he may be sick or dying. If anyone can give me advice I would really appreciate it. I'm worried.

*Also his head appears to bob up/down when he breathes but I read on here years ago that's normal*

Here his a picture of him after his soak:
20220720_160035.jpg
 
Last edited:

KarenSoCal

Well-Known Member
Tortoise Club
5 Year Member
Platinum Tortoise Club
Joined
Jul 8, 2017
Messages
5,749
Location (City and/or State)
Low desert 50 mi SE of Palm Springs CA
Hi! I'm sorry your baby doesn't seem to be feeling well.

I don't know much about marginated torts, but for a 2 year old, your temps sound just a bit cool to me. Maybe you could double-check them with this care sheet. Two years in tort time is still a baby, so he should be housed as one.

I'm sure someone who knows marginated will chime in later this evening.
 

Scollins17

New Member
Joined
Oct 13, 2019
Messages
11
Location (City and/or State)
Gilbert AZ
Hi! I'm sorry your baby doesn't seem to be feeling well.

I don't know much about marginated torts, but for a 2 year old, your temps sound just a bit cool to me. Maybe you could double-check them with this care sheet. Two years in tort time is still a baby, so he should be housed as one.

I'm sure someone who knows marginated will chime in later this evening.
Thanks, I've tried extremely hard to take the best care I can of this tortoise. I love the little guy and hope he will be alright. Thank you for your input.
 

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