Hello from the UK

[Cactusjaxs]

Hi all

New to the forum and tortoises acquiring. A Russian tortoise 8 weeks ago (kids have called him Flash). Seems to be settling in well. Found lots of useful tips already here. Having some puzzles with substrate. Have read conflicting information about topsoil/sand combinations. Bought some topsoil recently that has bits of wood and twigs etc in it. Would they be ok in his table or should they be removed.

Thanks
Rob

 

[Yvonne G]

No, that's fine. We don't like to see those tiny white bits in the substrate, though, because this causes the tortoise to eat his substrate. Most topsoil that you buy has those bits of wood, twigs, etc. My substrate of choice is fine grade orchid bark. You can buy this at plant nurseries.

 

[Yvonne G]

. . . oh, and - Welcome to the Forum!

 

[Cactusjaxs]

Thanks.
Good to know re the twigs. What are your thoughts on adding sand. I didn’t go for a straight 50/50 mix adding more top soil.
Here’s a more up to date pic.

 

[kanalomele]

Welcome to the group! Love the nane Flash!

 

[Grandpa Turtle 144]

Hi Rob
No to the sand .

 

[no one]

Hello and Welcome to the forum Rob and Flash!!

 

[stephkesh]

Such a cute name... Good luck with your cute guy!

 

[Lark_Tortoise]

Welcome! That's a cutie! I would not recommend the sand, there is a risk for impaction. Good luck!

 

[Hawaiifornia]

Welcome to TFO, Rob and Flash! Here are a couple of good reads to start you off

https://tortoiseforum.org/threads/beginner-mistakes.45180/
https://tortoiseforum.org/threads/russian-tortoise-care-sheet.80698/