Evening,

I'm now leaving my Hermans outside at night.

My two eldest are used to being outside - but my four 5/6 yr olds arnt. They are outside for most of the day - do you think its a bit drastic leaving them out all night ??

They have a safe enclosure - with a wire lid that cannot be removed or lifted by any animals - they also have a hide ???

Your advice would be appreciated.

Regards

Michelle xx

Hi Michelle,
I dont see any problem leaving them out at night while the weather is mild, you just need to make sure they dont get wet at night, we have had quite alot of rain here some quite heavy. Is their hide dry?

Ali

I havent risked leaving mine out all night, I worry about rats getting them, but I have heard of lots of people successfully leaving them out, afterall they are out in the wild!! lol

Vivienne

Hi Michelle,

I've been leaving my tortoises out at night (Hermanns and Horsfields) for a while now. Similar set up to you, protected by wire mesh, my enclosures are built on a solid base so nothing can dig in either. All have access to waterproof hides, some choose not to use them at night and dig in under large clumps of sedum. I think there are real benefits, the tortoises are up at the crack of dawn and have a very natural daily routine of basking, feeding, snoozing. Without exception the Hermanns are showing some nice smooth new scute growth and my little Horsfields are doing well. Don't get me started on my Box Turtle, I don't think she'll ever see the indoor enclosure I built for her, she loves the great outdoors too much!