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hibernation of tortise

22 16:03:45

Question
i bought 2 red footed tortises 2 months ago, they are just babies(4 inches long). they are healthy and active. i live in western washington and it gets cold in the winter so i built them a box inside that is 2' x 3' with aspen bedding, a shelter and a vitamin D light. i keep the room around 72 in the day and 65 at night. i have read a number of article that talks about hibernating them during the winter by putting them in a small box in a cold area. is this something i have to do???  

Answer
I would recommend against hibernation. they do not have to hibernate, we do not hibernate ours. If you just got them then I recommend against it because there can be undisclosed health issues.

Please have a full vet exam if that is what youre planning
Also If you choosse not to participate then you just need to keep them thinking it is warm with heat lights nad emmitters