Thoughts

[Archerman]

I recently picked up a young leopard tortoise. Was told he was about four but given his size I find that unlikely and would reckon much younger. He has a great shell and is very lively and interested in everything going on around him but does not seem to be eating. Although he is very interested I have yet to see him eat or open his mouth properly. Although his top is a bit over grown it certainly doesn't look bad enough to effect him. How long do I leave and any tips as to what to do? Thoughts welcome

 

[Jodie]

Pictures and a lot more info needed. What are temps, basking, warm side, cool side and night low? What are you feeding? Tortoises not cares for properly can be significantly smaller than they should be

 

[GeorgeUK]

Hey, please post a photo so we can see your new addition
Here is my Lady Dorothy. She is four and a half years old and as you can see, much smaller than most leopards her age.

From my discussions here, and further reading, the only explanation I've found in regards to her smaller size is that she was raised in a cooler climate (Manchester, England).


She continues to grow slowly in my care but is healthy and seems happy

 

[Archerman]

Now the Lady Dorothy is seriously good looking I want her Maybe it is something to do with being here, NE Scotland is maybe not designed for leopards. Well def not this past year. That aside, my two other babies are growing like mushrooms and the big guy loves it, just needs back out if spring ever happens , Scottish grass is the best. Just don't get why new guy is so interested but not able/interested in actually eating that's what don't understand

 

[GeorgeUK]

Haha
How long have you had the new guy? I started to panic because when I got Lady D, she didn't seem to eat for what seemed like an eternity...
Then one day she just started & has never stopped since
Roll on Spring

 

[von345]

How long until leapards are furtile ?

 

[Archerman]

Morning George, only had him a week now so realise possibly worrying over nothing but just seems odd. I know people say they can take weeks to settle but never had that experience with the others. Think it's also the fact he is so active and interested and seems to be trying to eat. Mind you he did have a poo in his bath this morning so hopefully that's things started.