Is it normal that Carla chooses to stay in one corner of her pen 80% of the day. She's not social AT ALL, Carlos is, he hears noise and he's darting towards wherever to find out what's going on…..Carla just gives me the impression she's miserable. I don't think she's happy here I know her Florida family would take her back if they needed to and I would sadly bring her back but I'm hoping I can find a way to help her come around. Any suggestions?

Are they being kept together?

My gut tells me with what you describe...you may have bullying going on.....

Well lets look at the area shes in 80% of the time and the other 20%. Keep in mind summer down in the southern states like you and me are still very very warm. My biggens come out very early in the morning graze, then around 9:30-10:00 A.M will go back to the shelter they have. They wont come out or do anything until 4:15-4:30ish. This is when the sun is shaded by the tree line. They graze and graze and graze, then go back to the shelter, and repeat this all day long unless the weather is cloudy and or cooler for grazing throughout the day. Also take into consideration the male trying to breed with her. She could just be a little stressed out by the male. Does this sound like her 20% pattern? Early morning, and late afternoon she is active?

They usually do sleep, hide out during the hottest part of the day. However, as already stated on one of your other threads, they need to be separated and kept separated. If bullying is going on, and it probably is, it could cause her to get very stressed, sick, and death.

I think she's being bullied by Carlos…..He has been trying to mount her for a couple of days so we separated them but even away from him, she stays in that same corner and digs a little but almost as if she's trying to get out, not to lay eggs or anything like that…..I know they don't really show emotions but my heart of hearts tells me she's sad. I hope I'm wrong.

Let's see a pic of the pen. That will tell us volumes. It is very likely that she's hiding from the male. Even if they are now separated, it will take some time for her to settle down and realize she's not about to be assaulted... again.

Kelly also makes some good points.

Also, males tend to be a lot more outgoing, curious and social. Females tend to be much more reclusive. Certainly there are exceptions, but my males are much more active and outgoing than my females.

I agree with the last post if their i bullying it will take time for her to stop stressing but she could just be a recluse. I have one female that has a 12ft plus deep burrow in her enclosure and she only comes out of it a couple times a week and if she sees me coming she does a b-line back inside of it. shes just a recluse and doesn't like people.

Addie, it took Willie a few months to socialize to us. I spoiled him with extra treats and would just sit near him and read my iPad, usually the tort forum. I talked to him and he slowly became more comfortable with me, then I had my hubby and kids do the same.. You of all people will connect with her. I defiantly would separate them per all the other advice.. Remember like your children- you can't compare them.. Let the kids have him and you slowly work on her.. Hey does that mean your hubby gets to build another " not so worthy" house..lol.. Also, she may still be mad at you for the diaper picture! lol.. No worries women- it will all be good. I'm a phone call away if you need to talk!

" she may still be mad at you for the diaper picture! "<----THAT'S IT!!!!! She is resenting me for the pictures I took of her in diapers!!!! I'll be sure to apologize to her when I get home this afternoon. Thank you Mary for helping me figure this one out. LOL, LOL, you're so funny!!!

does she have plenty of hides to feel safe? she needs time and space.. and freedom from the male...