Tortoise-world Forum

Hi everyone what substrate to you all use to hibernate your torts in i was wondering about using topsoil as this would what they would have naturally, any thoughts guys??

Thanks

Hi Wendy. I use top soil. Then i put a bit of shredded paper on top of them. Only a bit though. Make sure the soil is dry though.

HI Paulette, is this ok to use in a fridge as thats what i will be using.

Thanks

Hi Wendy. Thats what i have done. Terry is happy in the fridge now. Other people just use shredded paper some just top soil. It's what i use and Terry seems happy and fine. Too much paper and you might not be able to get the temps down far enough.

Thanks Paulette i was late getting thermometer so still getting temps right have stared wind down today so should get them right before the babies are ready. I'm dreading it its my first hibernation and im scared it will go wrong.

Will the fridge hold temps better if i fill "dead" space with bottles?

Hi Wendy. You will be ok. Thats what we are all here for to help each other. Take it one step at a time and you will be fine. Bottles filled with water in the dead space will help the frigde to hold it's temp. I also put in the box or boxes they will be hibernating in filled with their soil and paper. This helps to get the temps right. Any problems with your hibernation however small someone on here will help. I'm the person that normally freezes cucumber lol. If i can do it i'm sure you can. You will be ok.

Thanks Paulette that why i love this forum