Hatchling info

[TortForShort]

Hi My girlfriend and I are getting a two month old golden Greek female in a few days and I have been kind of thrown into this as we both haven't ever raised a tortoise before and didn't realize that it was so difficult to raise them. She has always wanted a toroise and has raised red ears for a while. I'm quite a bit of a nerd so as soon as she decided it was time to get a tortoise I went into full research mode, and even though I've learned a lot I still have a few questions.

I've read that even though Greeks live in more arid climates as adults, when they are hatchlings they need high humidity to form a smooth shell. What is the best enclosure for this?

We live in an apartment and are currently setting up an enclosure using a 2x3 under the bed storage bin, but I'm worried with it being so shallow and open that I won't be able to get the proper humidity for this. Could I cover half of the cage or should I construct something to close it completely including the light?

Also what about safety? I have a 160w mvb bulb hung on a lamp stand. Will this get too hot and be unsafe? Last thing I want is to set my apartment on fire.

 

[ascott]

Congrats on the upcoming tortoise How fun!!!!!!! and it is awesome you are a self proclaimed "nerd" I too am ALWAYS researching on them...

Okay, so I do not care for any Greeks, however I am familiar with the following;

I would be careful on what you interprete High Humidity to mean, please research this a bit more, as well as wait to see what other forum members say ---members that keep Greeks , yes they do need access to humidity during their younger months, but, not so much as to cause respiratory issues...please really research this, this species is highly apt to acquire respiratory infections with too much moisture.....so much more plays into a smooth shell and humidity with this species can be a bad thing..

A deep enclosure for these guys is not suggested, as they require air flow and not alot of humidity, just be certain there are not escape/fall issues with the open top...may want to make sure tall enough for your size of tortoise so no sad mishaps ....

I personally believe with the size of the table you describe, a 100 watt bulb would be more than sufficient....don't forget the UVB, but would not get ultra strength with the little ones

Again, welcome, congrats and please wait a bit for the Greek keepers here on the forum to offer your further advice and opinions....

 

[HipsterTorts]

They do need higher humidity when they are hatchlings.
My greeks are both in tortoise tables but I have them completely enclosed. I'll have to take a picture and post it so you can see.
In order for them not to get respiratory infections you need to keep the enclosure warm all the time.
To help keep the humidity up make sure to use a substrate that stays moist. I use cypress mulch, it works really well. Also, provide a humid hide.