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Spur thighed tortoise hibernation12/8/2023 ![]() Countries and regions that fall within these areas are known for having a climate that’s warm (at least 18 ☌ or 64.4 ☏) all year round. The tropics are essentially areas in the world that fall within a band of the earth’s surface either side of the equator, bound by the Tropic of Cancer in the Northern Hemisphere and the Tropic of Capricorn in the Southern Hemisphere. If your tortoise if of a species that hails from the tropics, then there’s a strong chance hibernation won’t form part of his/her yearly routine. Which Species of Tortoise do not Hibernate? Knowing if your tortoise does hibernate or not will inform your plan for managing them to help make sure they stay healthy.Įven if you own a hibernating breed of tortoise, there are arguments for and against hibernating them, which you can read about here. Of course, just like their reputation for being slow, this is a stereotypical and naive viewpoint, because whilst many tortoises do hibernate, there are several species that don’t. Hibernation is a very critical time, so please read the Tortoise Trust's "Safer Hibernation and Your Tortoise" to avoid potentially fatal errors.Along with their reputation for being slow and nervous, tortoises are well known for their natural need to hibernate (also known as brumation) during the winter months. If cared for correctly, Testudo graeca can reach extreme ages in captivity - we are aware of several which have surpassed 100 years. For further details on the dietary management of Testudo species, please consult the Tortoise Trust's "Feeding Manual". Provide a diet comprised of as many freshly picked wild foods as possible, and use a quality calcium and multi-vitamin supplement daily. Although recommended in some outdated texts, to do so invites terminal renal problems and, in the case of juveniles, will lead to artificially accelerated growth and guaranteed Metabolic Bone Disease (e.g., 'lumpy shell syndrome'). Under no circumstances provide animal protein, or other high protein, high fat foods to Testudo graeca. They are extremely susceptible to 'alien' pathogens and are notoriously difficult to cure of 'Runny Nose' problems once they commence. ![]() graeca with other species - including other members of the same genus. This species is in no way suitable for exclusive indoor maintenance in vivarium tanks. Fresh water should be available at all times. In captivity, this tortoise requires a spacious, dry, well drained pen with adequate natural graze. In northern areas of its range, this cycle is reversed with a winter hibernation and summer activity period. graeca is active throughout the warm winter period, and estivates through the hot summer. This habitat is subject to marked seasonal fluctuations in vegetation - with peak availability of edible plants in winter and early spring. The natural habitat of Testudo graeca graeca includes semi-arid scrub and Mediterranean forest, to the verges of semi-desert, where it can be found inhabiting outcrops of succulent Euphorbia. Regular soaking or constant access to water recommended.Requires extensive outdoor and indoor accommodation.From semi-arid environments with seasonal 'flushes' of vegetation.Female (left), Male (right) Euphorbia (above)
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