I always thought they could be outside from birth. Just like the wild?

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It's ok Clive... as i said i'm doing this on a whim, its taken lots of saving and hard work (especially from my Dad for building the enclosure from scratch!) And now its up to me to do the correct research!

Yes in the wild they would hibernate but how many would be lost ? I really don't know I keep exotics I will leave it to people that keep them but a cool down period is very important for any reptile.

most common practise with babies is tort tables as its more secure, very vulnerable to predators at that delicate age and size.

Kiara is only supposed to be 2 tho and she was out this summer and thrived from it. Very secure outside enclosure tho.


I will ask tho that you do try to buy from a breeder or rehome a tort. quite a few come up via shelled warriors, and the tortoise trust. Some pet shops keep their torts well, and i'm not disputing that. but buying a tort from their just feeds the trade in imported tortoises. And any true lover of these magnificent creatures doesn't want that.

Explain to the breeder that you want to buy a UK captive bred tort rather than a sickly pet shop animals, assure them that upmost care will be taken in transporting them. I'm not sure where wizzasmum and terrific tortoise are based but both are breeders of tortoises, that i would recommend. Have you tried torts mad yahoo group, or the shelled warriors breeders lists?

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Nice one, you are right, good luck.

in regards to hibernation providing they're healthy i'd hibernate from birth. Phoebe (not been active on here for some time unfortunately ) Had babies go into hibernation at a few weeks old and has never had any problems.


Providing you wind them down properly and they are in a controlled environment...fridges are perfect. there is v minimum risk.

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I have tried the shelled warriors breeders list, and tortoise trust (they tend to only re-home to experienced tortosie owners...which isn't me-yet!)

But will try the yahoo group-thanks!

Did not reply as have major family problems - back to that now. Maybe later. As for F** off - your interpretation not mine. Briefly I have never bought an import other than Wizza at last year of 80's importation (therefore not perpetuating the imports) - all others are rescues. Some are imported but that does not mean their importation was anything to do with me, nor does it excuse buying or supporting the sale of imported torts today(in my humble opinion).

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Take care
Sue

wizzasmum@aol.com

Soz hun!

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