Can a tortoise hiss or is this a sneeze?

Donatello

Member
Joined
Jan 21, 2014
Messages
70
My russian Donatello was walking about in his enclosure and made a hissing like sound. Like if you were to breath hard out of your nose. It was a quick sound and as he did it he went back in his shell fast. My daughter was playing in the same room as i was looking at him and she made a loud noise when donatello did this. Maybe he was just startled?. He stays in my room, so usually the room is very quiet all day. Thanks.
 

Barista5261

Member
5 Year Member
Joined
Nov 21, 2013
Messages
737
Location (City and/or State)
Central Florida
One of my sulcatas does that when he gets startled or spooked and retracts into his shell. I have to be sure not to make any sudden movements around him.
 

wellington

Well-Known Member
Moderator
10 Year Member!
Tortoise Club
Joined
Sep 6, 2011
Messages
49,907
Location (City and/or State)
Chicago, Illinois, USA
Yes, it's them expelling air, like when they draw into their shells fast. Not really a hiss, but sounds like one. I'm not sure if they can really hiss too, but don't think so.
 

Donatello

Member
Joined
Jan 21, 2014
Messages
70
Ok thanks guys so much. I am taking him to the vet still for a check up because i got him from the pet store. Now that he is in a enclosure with so much substrate i wasnt able to find any poop. When i add water to it i look and look. The last three soaks their wasnt any poop either. But today there was some by his food dish. Does it look normal? 1392866661553.jpg
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Top