Making Him Comfy

[Atlas325]

So Atlas (my RT) is still new to the house, had him for about a week, but he still seems to come out only to eat. I coax him out every morning, he eats his fill and then runs right back into his cave. I want him to be calm and un-afraid, is there anyway to help him? Also I have only seen him drink once.

 

[wellington]

Keep doing what your doing, but give him time. One week is a very short time. Some take weeks, some months. As far as the water, keep giving him fresh water every day and also mist his food with water. That way you no he is getting some water.

 

[dmmj]

It takes time for the to adjust to people, once they do, russians are very outgoing. Just relax and give the little guy time, he will come around.

 

[slowpoke]

the one time you seen him drink was it while your soaking him or do you have a dish in his habitat ?

 

[Neltharion]

Sounds normal to me. Give him time, the fact that he's eating is a good sign. I very infrequently see mine drink, so don't worry if he doesn't seem to be drinking.

 

[Arizona Sulcata]

It's natural for them to stay in their den unless feeding or drinking. This is what they do in nature and its what they'll do in captivity as well. Especially this time of year.

Arizonasulcata.webs.com

 

[Atlas325]

Oh that's good Yes he has a dish in his habitat, and he drinks when I soak him I was just worried that wasn't enough.
Thanks guys

 

[GBtortoises]

So Atlas (my RT) is still new to the house, had him for about a week, but he still seems to come out only to eat. I coax him out every morning, he eats his fill and then runs right back into his cave. I want him to be calm and un-afraid, is there anyway to help him? Also I have only seen him drink once.

That's very normal activity for a tortoise in a new enviroment, especially a wild caught tortoise (presuming that it is). It will usually take a few weeks or more to adjust to new surroundings.