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ill horsefield

22 16:38:41

Question
Hi, I have two 2 year old horsefeild tortoises. One is healthy and fine the other seems to be hibernating. Is this possible at this time of year. He/She is alive and will move back to his/her hideaway if i try to get it to have some exercise. It has not eaten for a while and I'm worried. Previously it has been a good mover and if anything alot more liver than the other.I put it near food and water regularly but has no interest. I'm in a dilemma as I'd hate to think that I'm DISTURBING IT DURING HIBERNATION.

Answer
Estivation is common in the summer- it is not as 'deep' as hibernation and is common when it is hot and dry, and food or water are scarce.

Disturbing it is not a great idea, but looking it over well is important. Look for dry-looking skin, sunken eyes, signs of 'tears'- this is all evidence of dehydration, which can also cause problems.

If it appears dehydrated at all, it needs some changes to the housing and diet- more humidity, more moisture in the food, and possibly a couple short soakings a day.

Another possibility is a little crowding and aggression that has 'her' hiding.

I think I would review the basic cares at a good site like http://www.tortoisetrust.org and see if there is anything else that might need tweaking.

If it IS estivation, and 'she' is not loosing weight too much and shows no signs of dehydration- then it really is not much of a problem.