Hi

We have a hermans tort who is 2 yrs old. He is showing no signs of winding down at all and since we have only had him a couple of months, the plan is to hibernate next year when we have had at least a chance to get prepared.

He is living indoors at present, but we have a conservatory which I was going to monitor the temp this year over the winter and I have access to a cold room storage facility at work which is walk in and is set to 5C.

Something seems not right about using a fridge and I have heard about several casualties. I obviously need to read lots and try to go by the book, but do you think this cold room storage facility is a real possibility?

Thanks

Hi,

The fridge method does seem daunting to some people, it was to me but i have been using it for about 7 years now and find it the best method. I agree you should keep your tortoise awake this year as you have only had him a while and the cold room could be a possibility but a conservatory although this can be very cold in the winter months can warm up on sunny days and you may find quite a fluctuation in temps.

Ali

Thanks Ali for the advice, I was starting to think that the conservatory was a bad idea as temp variation could make it very difficult.

Could you suggest a fridge that is suitable for the purpose?

Thanks again

Hi,

You just need a good larder fridge (with no freezer or chiller unit) Mine is a Beko and i find these really efficient, i took out an insurance with mine which cost me £1.75 a month and covers everything including replacement.

Ali

Hi Ali

Thanks for the information. What about ventilation? Do you have to open the door at least once a day or something?

Mozla

Hi,

Yes you need to open it at least once a day to let the air in. Mine is opened frequently as it also contains my alcohol

Ali