You're in > TPG Members Forum > Hibernation > Weight loss in hibernation

Weight loss in hibernation
Posted: 19/12/2016 by Vap3008

Morning all, first time.posting and after some advice please.  

This is the first year I'm hibernating my tortoise (3.5 yr old Marginated, weighed 505g going into the fridge) and I was very scared and nervous to begin with! Gary has now been in the fridge for a week so I have weighed him today and he's lost 18g! Much more than the 1% I was expecting. Don't oi think I should wake him up? Any advice greatly appreciated. Vicky xx

Re: Weight loss in hibernation
Posted: 19/12/2016 by tomtortoise@tovevalley.net

Hello Vicky,

What is the temp. in the fridge near to the hibe box ? At least 2 thermostats should be used.

Are your scales accurate enough to be sure of the amount lost ?

Regards,
Tom

Re: Weight loss in hibernation
Posted: 19/12/2016 by Vap3008

Hi, thanks so much forgetting back to me! The fridge temp closest to the box is 5.2°c. 

The scales are only kitchen ones but the same set that I've always weighed him on, throughout the years and pre-hibernation. Xx 

Re: Weight loss in hibernation
Posted: 19/12/2016 by tomtortoise@tovevalley.net

At that temp I doubt if he's lost 18gm.

4C would be even better.

Go for 10 weeks & increase next year.

Tom

 

web designer: www.beework.net