Tortoise Diet

[Dave B]

Hi All,

Our new Russian seems to be a picky eater. The only thing he seems to want to go for is radicchio We have offered Kale, Collards, Mustard Greens, Hibiscus, Lettuce and all manner of other things but he just seems to search out the Radicchio hiding in the mix and eat only this.

From what i understand its ok for him to eat this but only as a small portion of his overall diet. Any ideas on what else we could try? Maybe its just the color he is going for?

Our Vet also mentioned that he is older, maybe 10 years and she could see from his shell that he had been undernourished in the past. Is it possible this is all he was offered to eat and he is just used to this?

Thanks for your help,
David

 

[Tom]

There are a few things going on here.
1. They all take a while to adjust to a new living environment in a new place.
2. Its fall. The shorter days and cooler temps shut down their appetites in order to empty their guts for the upcoming hibernation.
3. Tortoise are creatures of habit, so its possible that he is not used to the foods you are offering.

What are your four temps? Warm side, cool side, basking area, and over night low?
What equipment are you using for heating and lighting.

Here are a couple of threads that might help:
http://www.tortoiseforum.org/threads/russian-tortoise-care-sheet.80698/
http://www.tortoiseforum.org/threads/beginner-mistakes.45180/