Mite have some Problems

We’ve been noticing some tiny, flying bugs zipping around our torts’ enclosure. We just changed our substrate (we have coconut husk) and the bugs are increasing. Is it a problem with the substrate? If you shake the coconut up, tiny bugs will fly out.

Are you certain they're not fruit flies? Very common in enclosures. Also common with store-bought produce.

Answer: None of the above!

Most of us have trouble with tiny bugs in our enclosures. It happens due to the warm, moist conditions in the enclosure. Most of these bugs are not at all harmful to your tortoise.

I've heard that some people bake their new substrate before using it, to kill any bugs or eggs that might be in it.

jUMPSu1t said:

We’ve been noticing some tiny, flying bugs zipping around our torts’ enclosure. We just changed our substrate (we have coconut husk) and the bugs are increasing. Is it a problem with the substrate? If you shake the coconut up, tiny bugs will fly out.

Click to expand...

I have had the same issue! I use the same substrate. I put a screen on top and I thought that helped however I have noticed its more common in the warmer months. I read that it's to be expected. But it's still annoying!

I had a bunch at one point and bought some of these sticky pads - and do they ever work. I placed one on the flat top of the hide box (inside the enclosure) and one outside the enclosure near the window. Within 3-4 weeks, the pads were covered and the problem was mostly over. Just keep away from your tortoise because they are STICKY.

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