Blood mites??!?!

[Moozillion]

What are blood mites and how do torts get them? My new tort arrives next week and I'm using organic potting soil, coco coir and ground up dried leaves for substrate. Is that risky?

 

[EricIvins]

You shouldn't have to worry about Mites on a Tortoise to begin with. Anything bought from a reputable person will not come in with Mites, and Mites are not going to come from supplies........

 

[Moozillion]

Whew!!! THANKS!!!

 

[Jessamy]

My tort did not come with mites but did recently get them. I had a similar mix of soil, peat, moss, worms, collected leaves/sticks, and plants both indoors and out. I am adding Pillbugs and they may help. Good news is I guess blood mites are not common with torts. Periodically check armpit and shoulder crevices and treat by carefully soaking then applying olive oil to mites avoiding the torts eyes,mouth, nose.

 

[Moozillion]

Thanks for the info!!!