Just because you haven't had him very long. You really don't know if he's healthy. Hatchlings and hibernation are always scary. You can research hatchling desert tortoise hibernation and get some good info online
I'm in phoenix and it's still hot here but the mornings are chilly enough that tortoises will start taking days off so to speak. It was 95 today but chilly in the morning
Sounds like you're doing everything right! Good job. It's good to see someone research and do the right thing!!! Outside is the best. I'm still unsure about him hibernating. He eats well right?
If he is a year old he is small. I should ask how long you have had him and what is his setup like? I love desert tortoises. My favorite animal by far.
If you need to keep him inside make sure you get proper lighting. Reptileuv.com has the best uv bulbs on the market. Uv and heat. I use the self ballast 100 w bulbs. They need sunlight and proper diet more than anything. It's getting chilly out so I'm not sure if you should hibernate him this...
Hi Alex. I've had many desert tortoises over the years. The only thing I notice other than the one acute discoloration is that his whole carapace seems a little dark. Do you know how old he is? They are typically more of an orange/yellow color with dark spots here and there. If he is a little...
Hi, new here. My name is Steve and I live in Surprise AZ, from Phoenix before that and Mass and Rhode Island before that. I've had an bred turtles and tortoises for 25 years. Desert tortoises, sulcatas, red eared sliders, painted turtles, mud turtles, musk turtles, eastern box turtles, 3 toed...