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| rehoming & existing tort Posted: 23/10/2016 by Ponopoly |
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Hi -we have a 20 something male Mediterranean spur thigh - rehomed 6 years ago ( he was an unwanted gift and whilst he hadn't been abused, he certainly didn't have the right diet/conditions early on, as he as some pyramiding). He is now strong & healthy - and we have plenty of outdoor roaming space and indoor light facilities - and I am wondering if he should have a companion? Some time ago he escaped, and ended up being handed in to a private garden with other torts ( not sensible quarantine wise - but nothing happened) - when I went to recover him, I found him basking in a group - and felt rather guilty taking him back to his solitary life. I want to do my best for him, but I am not an expert, and there is so much conflicting advice , including from our reptile specialist vet ( who thinks he is fine living alone) - I would like to know what you think? We would be very happy to rehome the right animal from this site if that is the best thing for him & any others. Please advise ! many thanks Sarah P H | |
| Re: rehoming & existing tort Posted: 23/10/2016 by tomtortoise@tovevalley.net |
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Hello, The problem is that 2 males fight viciously. With 1m/1f the m. will constantly try to mate the f, causing great stress. For the above reasons males usually have to be kept separately. If you could acquire 4 females that would be ok. It's important not to mix spur-thighed species, or huge vet bills or worse !! Tom | |
| Re: rehoming & existing tort Posted: 23/10/2016 by Ponopoly |
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Hi Tom Thanks for quick response. Certainly don't want stress & fighting - am trying to improve Tortie's life! I don't have the indoor facilities for 4 females & we are in Devon, not the Med, so Tortie has to come in for the colder months. Perhaps if there were 3 -4 females of right species used to being outside in the Uk , that could work, but I guess its a long shot. best regards | |
| Re: rehoming & existing tort Posted: 23/10/2016 by tomtortoise@tovevalley.net |
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No prob Sarah, However it should be hibernated between late Oct. to late March. Click on "The Tortoise /.." for hibe info. If you upload photos I should be able to tell you which species it is. Tom | |
| Re: rehoming & existing tort Posted: 23/10/2016 by Ponopoly |
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Think I have uploaded a reasonable pic - can't see where it attaches tho'. Should I hibernate him that long for the first time? he never has done yet.... | |
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| Re: rehoming & existing tort Posted: 23/10/2016 by tomtortoise@tovevalley.net |
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Testudo ibera. Take your time reading about hibe. & preparing. Then wind down in Dec. & give it 3mths this time. Less time to worry !! It's a natural process - nothing to fear if the procedure is followed carefully. Best wishes, Tom | |
| Re: rehoming & existing tort Posted: 24/10/2016 by Ponopoly |
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Thanks very much - I shall proceed with caution & let you know how it goes. He certainly shows signs of wanting to hibernate. Presume all the stuff you said re ratios of male to females when kept together still applies? | |
| Re: rehoming & existing tort Posted: 24/10/2016 by tomtortoise@tovevalley.net |
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It does. T. | |