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Wondering what classification this tortoise is and some other General Questions
Posted: 13/03/2014 by HankTT

Hi!!!

I am new to this forum. First I would like to welcome myself and say thanks in advance for any answers. My names Joe and I own a Russian Tortoise. He is not a typical looking Russian, as his shell is very light colored.


I have owned my tortoise Hank since Fall '13 and have a few questions regarding him.


  1. What does this colored shell mean if most Russian's shells look different than his shell? Is he un-healthy at all?
  2. He has some cracking shell that looks like it needs to fall/peel off, what can I do here?
  3. With Hank being cooped up all winter, what could I do to cheer him up and play with him a bit to stimulate his mood while there is still snow outside?
  4. He stopped pooping as much when he left my room to go to the room next to me with my rabbits. Is this a sign that he wants to be in my room? He's been eating just fine but he doesn't poop as much though. Is this a phase of protozoa from taking from the wild?


Any help would be great.

Click and drag me down to the editor

Thanks!

Re: Wondering what classification this tortoise is and some other General Questions
Posted: 13/03/2014 by Tom

Hello Hank,


1.  Colour variants are quite common. Very attractive isn't he ?
2.  The carapace appears to be alright. 
3.  They don't like being indoors. It needs an enclosure building, as big as                 possible.
     The best way to stimulate it, is to provide 4 to 6 inches of topsoil so that it can       express some natural behaviour.  
      Ideally it should be in hibernation - but you can prepare for next year.  
4.   With a new & stimulating enclosure, he will be happier. When the snow               goes, I suggest that you build an outdoor  enclosure  of at least 20 square             yards & he will be even happier.

      Regards,
      Tom     

 
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