Finding a mate, help needed!! - Page 2

neo_logic_2k · #11 (**permalink**) 30-12-2007, 06:34 PM

Yes there is also a UVB light in there, on a 12 hour timer allong with the lamp and mat.

blondesarah · #12 (**permalink**) 30-12-2007, 06:37 PM

Is the heat mat placed under your tortoise? If so this can burn him.
Where is your UVB?

littlefoot · #13 (**permalink**) 30-12-2007, 06:37 PM

The pic of the tort shows that it has been growing way too fast.It doesnt need a heat mat either it's a wonder it isnt dehydrated.What are the temps in the viv and under the heat ?

neo_logic_2k · #14 (**permalink**) 30-12-2007, 06:37 PM

I did so much reading before I got them on diet and habitat, now I feel like I have treated them cruly. I can indeed change the bulb to a normal spot, again I was told by the vet and also the reptile supplier that a red bulb would be invisable to them at night!! they get plently of uv for the shell.

Katiexx · #15 (**permalink**) 30-12-2007, 06:39 PM

As sarah has said weeds weeds and more weeds.

horsfields and other med tortoises such as hermanns. Can't digest fruits and vegs properly and they can seriously upset the gut flora.

Also where is the UV light in the picture? I can't see it and tortoises NEED uv to for the d3 which helps in calcium absorption, which is necessary.

Also you see the top of the tortoises shell? It should be smooth not bumpy. Pyramiding as its called, is usually caused due to over feeding and the incorrect diet. It really is imperitive u get the tort on the right diet soon, as you can't see whats going on in the inside and the shell is a big sign.

Also you said you've introduced the tortoise...have you quarantined for sixmonths? If not you risk the torts being exposed to pathogens from one another or even parasites such as worms.

One male:one female doesn't work with horsfields as the males can get really aggressive.. also are you positive you have a female, as they sometimes show similar behaviour when fightin over dominance. 3 females to one male is recommended so that the male will not stress the female out causing eventual illness.

Wood chips for substrate are a no no as well with horsfields as the slightest bit of water can cause mould spores and cause very serious Respiritary infections..also they can't dig..and need substrate deep enough and with enough substance to promote digging and burrowing (in the wild they live in tunnels).

Also when you say half a foot deep..do you mean front to back? if so that's a bit small... horsfields need at least 4ft by 4ft each per indoor accomodation..and i'd say thats with a suitable outdoor enclosure during the summer.

Also vivs (unadapted) are unsuitable for tortoises as the glass can stress them out and humidity can build up quite easily if left unchecked...horsfields need low humidity dry environments or you'll end up with RI (respiratory infections)

[edit] just saw ur reply u said they have UVB what strength is it..a 10.0uvb is required for healthy horsfields and to aid their growth

blondesarah · #16 (**permalink**) 30-12-2007, 06:41 PM

I understand you get told so many things and who do you believe?

Please no light at night how do they know its night time? would they have a light on in the wild?

Its just not natural a red light.

Your not being cruel at all you thought you were doing the right thing. You really need to change his accomodation. I bet you if you put him in a table, deap substrate a good light his behaviour will change and he will be alot happier.

neo_logic_2k · #17 (**permalink**) 30-12-2007, 06:43 PM

temp is currently 32 under the heat and 25 at the far end of the tank

Katiexx · #18 (**permalink**) 30-12-2007, 06:44 PM

don't feel its your fault it's very hard to find the correct advice. i can remember how intimidating it was at first.

if you go to Tortoise Trust Web - Start Page you will find some fantastic information..just use the site search and type in what you want so for example horsfield..n it'll bring up relevant links. Also can i recommend shelled warriors forum..its blondesarah's forum n is great for tort information

neo_logic_2k · #19 (**permalink**) 30-12-2007, 06:44 PM

we dont give them light at night they get 12 hours of heat and uv a day these are on a timer

Katiexx · #20 (**permalink**) 30-12-2007, 06:46 PM

oh forgot to ask...is there a reason they're not in hibernation? Have you not had them long or something?

just curious as unless they're new additions, providing they're healthy they should be sound asleep by now. my lil uns are in the fridge

missing em already lol

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode