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Anyone help a newbee?
Posted: 05/07/2016 by Nickybow@blueyonder.co.uk

Hi everyone.  Am in the process of getting together my set up for a beautiful baby Med spur thigh.  Testudo Graeca.  I am using a breeder who has given me lots of info but I feel I might be driving her mad with questions!  I plan on keeping Rocky on a tortoise table until he is old enough to spend time in the garden (under a safe run).  So, here's the question that I can see is being asked constantly but I want a straight forward answer please so I know exactly what to purchase - what type and wattage of heat bulb please.  Also, UV strip - again, what type?  Also what price should I expect to pay?  I dont mind spending money for the little man but dont want to be ripped off.  Ive also heard that UV strip can damage tortis eyes?


Thanks everyone.  Nicky 

Re: Anyone help a newbee?
Posted: 05/07/2016 by tomtortoise@tovevalley.net

Hello,

Firstly, it's unlikely to be T. graeca even if it's A10 Cert says T. g. 
It is likely to be T. ibera.  I would question the breeder about this, bear in mind there are some scam 'breeders'.

What light/heat does the breeder recommend ?
How old is it ?
I don't understand what you mean by "until he is old enough to spend time in the garden." Can you explain please ?

Regards,
Tom

Re: Anyone help a newbee?
Posted: 07/07/2016 by Nickybow@blueyonder.co.uk

She deffinately told me its  a Greaca but I will check this out.  Seems like a reputable breeder, absolutey full of knowledge and very helpful.  


The tortoise will be around 8 weeks old when we get him but the this may be later as the breeder refuses to let them go to homes until they are a certain weight..  When I say "old enough to be in the garden" - I mean for him to be old enough and big enough to spend his days roaming freely and safely by himself, I understand this is goig to be quite some time!  I will be placing him in the garden, under a shelter on warm days.  

Recommends a ACR 18 lighting unit.  200 med reptism 15w tube. 200 med basking spot lamp 60W ES.  I hope this makes sence and I have typed it properly.  Not had chance to look this up yet.  

There is a lot to learn about these little guys isnt there?  Its important to me that I do things right.

Kind regards.

Re: Anyone help a newbee?
Posted: 07/07/2016 by tomtortoise@tovevalley.net

What weight is that ?

OK if you're happy, if you post photos when you get it I can tell you which species. 
TPG breeders provide detailed written advice. She should do the same.

It can go out on cloudy or hazy days. In full sun make sure shade is never far away. A wooden sided pen, with wire netting on top. A piece of polycarbonate in part on top is good for cooler days.

That lighting is odd. Explore this site it's full of info. Start with "The Tortoise /"  box.
Yes much to learn, I've kept torts for 40+ years & still learning.

Tom

 

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