Hi everyone, hope you can help. I have a 1yr old tort and it will be 1st that I will have hibernated Sidney. I have been advised that the fridge method is best. I have been researching it and I have to wind him down for 2 weeks prior to hibernation, BUT WHEN DO I START AND PUT HIM IN THE FRIDGE??? And I am gonna use a soil/sand substrate to help with hydration. I know I have to keep a check on weight and a couple of grams is normal and not to worry unless more. But for HOW LONG DO I HIBERNATE him for?? As I am going to Australia on 26th Jan to 20th Feb will this cause me problems?? IS THIS RIGHT??? PLEASE HELP ME........

Hiya,

As it's his first hibernation I would aim for 8 weeks initially and see how it goes. The important thing is to get the fridge and hibernation box set up as early as possible to give you time to monitor the temperatures. Soil is the preferred method. As you are not going to be about to check his/her weight I would be inclined to start the hibertion 2-3 weeks before you are due to leave. This is generally when most problems are more evident

HTH
Darren

Thank you Darren, appreciate ur help xxxx Vicky & Sidney

You're very welcome:-)