How can you tell how old a horsefield tortoise is?
There’s no real way of determining a tortoise’s age, other than through record keeping. Contrary to some old wives tales, the growth rings around scutes are not a gauge for age.
What do you do when you first get a tortoise?
You absolutely have to take your tortoise to the vet when you first get one. Why? Because tortoises, like every other animal, need to have check-ups. If yours seems sluggish, or is acting unusual, you should look into evaluating your tortoises diet and nutrition.
Can you keep a tortoise you find?
In California, it is illegal to sell, purchase, harm, take, possess, transport, or shoot a projectile at a tortoise (Gopherus) (California Fish and Game Code 5000). It is illegal to have a tortoise as a pet unless it was acquired prior to 1972.
Do horsefield tortoises need paperwork?
The Horsefield tortoise is the more common species recognised in the pet trade. This species does not need to be microchipped under CITES and does not require paperwork.
How do you know if a tortoise is wild?
Shell growth Signs of slow growth such as narrow growth rings or smooth looking shells can be indicators of wild origin in some species (see pictured guide) In some species of tortoises, animals raised quickly to adult size will show signs of excessive growth (unusually wide, sometimes pale, growth rings) and/or …
What kind of animal is a Horsefield tortoise?
Horsefield Tortoise Care Guide Sheet. The Horsefield tortoise (Agrionemys horsfieldii), also known as the Russian tortoise, is a small species from Eurasia that can be found in the Mediterranean region.
When is the best time to breed a Horsefield tortoise?
Pairs of tortoises that have been raised together are more likely to be successful in breeding when they are 7 to 10 years old. Only healthy adults should be encouraged to breed. The temperature has to be kept right for mating to take place immediately after hibernation. Horsefields are most likely to mate during the months of March to May.
What can I put on my Horsefield tortoise’s shell?
Violets, pansies, petunia, hibiscus and wild rose petals can be added for some seasonal variety. In order to maintain a healthy shell, a tortoise needs plenty of calcium in its diet. Calcium supplements can be purchased from any good pet store. Limestone flour, which is very high in calcium, is available from most equestrian suppliers.
When does a Horsefield tortoise go into hibernation?
Outdoor hibernation should take place for at least two to four months, at a time between October and March when the temperature is at its lowest. A tortoise can safely be left to hibernate in its usual outdoor shelter. Indoor hibernation need to be temperature controlled and the tortoise should be placed in a hibernation box for two to four months.
Where do Horsefield tortoises live in the world?
Horsefield Tortoises are native to Central Asia including the Russian Steppes, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, India, Iran, and some parts of China. Horsefield Tortoises are a terrestrial species that live in hot, dry inhospitable places like near deserts and on dry slopes in mountainous regions.
Which is the best name for a Horsfield’s tortoise?
Give a Horsfield’s tortoise the right setup and diet and you’re guaranteed a great family pet. Other names or sub-species: Testudo horsfieldii, Russian tortoise, central Asian tortoise.
Is there a trade in Horsfield’s Russian tortoise?
Trade in the Horsfield’s or Russian tortoise has unfortunately greatly expanded following the disintegration of the former Soviet Union. Repeated seizures of illegal shipments have now resulted in the need for greater practical maintenance information being made available as many more enthusiasts may find themselves encountering this species.
Why does Horsfield’s tortoise die from cat food?
A high fibre, low protein and calcium rich diet will ensure good digestive tract function and smooth growth. Horsfield’s tortoises fed on cat or dog food frequently die from renal failure or from impacted bladder stones of solidified urates.
How old do horsefield tortoises live?
These tortoises are native to Central Asia including the Russian Steppes, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, India, Iran and some parts of China. They are a burrowing tortoise and can burrow up to 3 foot in the ground. They should be expected to live over at least 50 years, if not reaching 80-100 years.
How much does an old tortoise cost?
An older tortoise is likely to be more expensive than a baby tortoise. For instance, a baby tortoise might cost $50, while an older tortoise can be $300-1,000. Older tortoises are more expensive because they have a lower risk of dying. Some people enjoy the idea of raising a tortoise as a hatchling and watch them grow.
