Hi We recently been given this tortoise (named shelly) and she came with these two white patches on her shell? we know that she is at least 50 years old, as she was bought by a family member in 1974?

Also what type of tortoise is she? we think shes a Hermann Tortoise but were not sure?

Thanks

Fred

Hi there.These are old shell wounds. Causes may have been predators, rock abrasions or bumps. Sometimes, wild tortoises are victims of fire, falls, predator activity which cause damage to shell outer layer. These damage encounters result in shell plate damage. Generally, these are not a cause for concern, and do not interfere at all with torty life.

As long as these areas are dry, stable and not weeping, I would leave well alone.

Regards, David nr York.

Thanks for the advice, that's a relief

I've got a 47 year old hermanns with the same marks on her , I was told to make sure they don't get bigger don't pick any loose bits and just clean the area gently when she's dirty but other then that there fine , I would say hermanns aswell
Enjoy her there great

I have had rehomers with these marks and as mentioned they are old shell damage. Underneath there will be lovely new shell growth which can be exposed if you give the area a gentle scrub with diluted Videne daily for a month or so. The old white stuff will just lift off and reveal shiny new coloured shell. Hope this helps ;)