Hibernate

[Ilovetorts123]

Worried about hibernation

I've discovered that my tort won't eat or drink because he is unsettled and not used to a new environment
Will he hibernate if he's not eating?

 

[ascott]

RE: Worried about hibernation

I would not plan for brumation since you have had him less than a year...and during this first year you can allow him to settle into his enclosure and assure he begins to eat and hydrate so that he will be ready for a rest next year....

Give him time, a tort in a new environment will take some time...as advised, keep food and water available and he will take to it when he feels settled...

 

[Ilovetorts123]

I have had him 2 weeks and don't plan to hibernate him but being away for a day and coming back to no water but food bowl as left, could he be trying to hibernate himself?
Also he hasn't moved from the same place!

 

[Yvonne G]

You don't notice a change in a tortoise that is slowing down for brumation in just a day or two. I don't think your trip has caused any kind of a slow down for the tortoise. Since you've had him such a short time, you are going to have to work very hard to trick him into thinking it is still the middle of summer. Lights on at 6 or 7a, and not turned off until 7 or 8p. Nice warm habitat, plenty of food. Keep diggin him out and put him in front of the food. Soak him in warm water daily for about 15 minutes.

 

[wellington]

If he isn't eating and not moving much now, I might want to make sure his temps are correct. They may be either to hot or too cold. Be sure he has a basking spot of 95+ as they do need to warm up past 85 to properly digest their food.