- Joined
- Jul 21, 2014
- Messages
- 19
Hi all,
I recently just moved from New Hampshire to sunny Florida. Leo, my 6 year old russian tortoise loved playing outside during the summer in NH. He would spend hours outside if I let him, and would even go on daily walks with me on the sidewalk. So naturally, I thought he would LOVE an outside enclosure in Florida. We've been here a couple weeks now, and I have noticed that since I moved him outside he seems less active. Before he would be constantly walking around the perimeters of his enclosure, anxious for me to take him outside. He now has access to over 150 square feet- 3/4 of which is a sheltered lanai. Although I'm not outside with him constantly, I've noticed that he spends most of his time sheltered under a large plant, and I have not seen him bask once. Each day is in the mid 80's minimum (we're at the hottest point of the year now) , with nights dropping into the 70's. I've monitored how hot is actually feels like, and it doesn't get over 100. There's at least one light rain shower a day, usually in the afternoon (he has full access to the lanai during these times, which has a basking light to warm up and dry off after the rain) . He also has access to 3 or 4 hides, all placed in shady locations with dirt. Although I don't believe its too hot for him, I just want to make sure as I have noticed these changes in behavior. And although he loves the romping space, if need be I can build him and indoor enclosure.
Thanks so much,
madie
I recently just moved from New Hampshire to sunny Florida. Leo, my 6 year old russian tortoise loved playing outside during the summer in NH. He would spend hours outside if I let him, and would even go on daily walks with me on the sidewalk. So naturally, I thought he would LOVE an outside enclosure in Florida. We've been here a couple weeks now, and I have noticed that since I moved him outside he seems less active. Before he would be constantly walking around the perimeters of his enclosure, anxious for me to take him outside. He now has access to over 150 square feet- 3/4 of which is a sheltered lanai. Although I'm not outside with him constantly, I've noticed that he spends most of his time sheltered under a large plant, and I have not seen him bask once. Each day is in the mid 80's minimum (we're at the hottest point of the year now) , with nights dropping into the 70's. I've monitored how hot is actually feels like, and it doesn't get over 100. There's at least one light rain shower a day, usually in the afternoon (he has full access to the lanai during these times, which has a basking light to warm up and dry off after the rain) . He also has access to 3 or 4 hides, all placed in shady locations with dirt. Although I don't believe its too hot for him, I just want to make sure as I have noticed these changes in behavior. And although he loves the romping space, if need be I can build him and indoor enclosure.
Thanks so much,
madie