Just curious, why do my babies rock in their shells?

[Madkathq]

They make a rocking motion going a little bit into the shell and then out. They do this when waking up, soaking, being held, eating, but why? It's so cute! I feel like it means they are happy, because they typically end up stretched out afterwards. I looked around a bit to see if I could find answers but didn't get far

 

[Kim&Tim]

It's the way they breath. I assume that's what you mean right? When breathing they move their front legs slightly and make a subtle move back and forth.

 

[Toddrickfl1]

That's them smelling.

 

[jsheffield]

I was going to say they're victims of the rhythm, but the other answers are better... ?

Jamie

 

[Madkathq]

It's like they are building up momentum to go out of their shell or to walk forward haha That being the way theysniff the air makes sense but I think I'd see it more if that was general breathing