Tortoises are large and typically have a layer of stone or shell on either side of their skin, providing some insulation. They are classified as a Diacodysiroga species, which means they do not regulate their temperature easily.
Because they are so large, you can imagine that they require very special care in regards to temperatures. Because they do not heat themselves, many people mistake them for cold-blooded creatures that need to be kept warm.
In fact, some cultures use the word ice for tortoises because of this. Due to their size, it is important that the tortoise is well-compensated. Some individuals can reach up to 10 pounds! This is what makes this task hard and cost-prohibitive in many situations.
This article will discuss the appropriate temperature range and hibernation requirements for tortoises of different species and origin.
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Mediterranean tortoises
The average temperature of the surface of a Mediterranean tortoise is around 32–34°F (13–15°C). This is due to the thick, water-resistantshell that covers them.
Most species do not require heating after winter, but some may do so if it is warmer outside. A healthy wintering group of ten to fifteen turtles may be enough heat for one alone.
Heating a tortoise in the warm season is not an option; instead, keeping him or her cool is. While not recommended, some individuals have been advised to freeze their shells to prevent breaking during cold winters.
It is important to remember that although temperatures may seem low or normal for summer, tortoises are very sensitive to change. If you have a northern climate individual, keep them in the dark and insulated until fall so they can spend their year in comfort.
Desert tortoises
The desert tortoise is a hardy species that can hibernate for long periods of time. Like most reptiles, they are sensitive to temperatures, so if it is cold outside, then it must be warm inside too.
Due to its slender size, tortoises need very warm conditions to lay their eggs. Because of this, many zoo directors choose to put them in artificial incubation units in the winter to help them settle in.
Because these eggs take a long time to hatch, producing a small enough incubator is difficult. Some facilities use free–standing cooled boxes or trays that the eggs can land in. These must be checked and used properly, or the creation could perish.
Himalayan tortoises
Himalayan tortoises are very large creatures, usually weighing over 2 feet in length. They can go for quite a while without eating!
They are mainly active during the day, and require a bit of warmth during the daytime. This helps them to maintain their shape and temperature as they sleep!
At night, they need a warm place to go to hibernate. Some species require more heat than others, so it is important to know which ones are necessary.
Checking up on your hibernant do not need any special precautions- they will sure enough find themselves a warm place to rest until next winter.
Texas Red-foot tortoise
The Texas red-foot is a large Tortoise species. It has a brown and white patterned shell that ranges from light to dark in shade.
He or she can also change to either a black or grey color when threatened. When threatened, the tortoise will slide into a semi-sunken shell and remain that way for several minutes.
This is important when defending itself or another tortoise. The goal is to look like a rock or something similar to avoid being eaten. After that, you are on your own!
He or she can hibernate for months, even years at one time. Some turtles will do this every year, while others every winter season. Either way, it is important to have enough winter weather to allow them to survive.
African spur-thighs
The African spur-thigh is one of the most iconic creatures on Earth. These sizable turtles are known for their long, slender legs, thickly padded feet, and powerful tail which can also be used for locomotion.
They are usually found in wooded areas at night, where they can retreat into a lined area with smooth rocks. This allows it to retreat underground until morning.
Because of their size and secretive nature, few people know about this hibernation mode. Some species may even go unnoticed for several months!
If you were ever fortunate enough to see one in the daytime, it would look like it was always asleep! It would appear as if there was a thick film over it, with no one bothering to check on it.
Mountain dune turtles
The mountain dune turtle is a small, hardy species of tortoise. They are native to the Western United States, where they live in rocky hills and vegetation.
They are primarily active during the day, spending most of their time on the lookout for food and retreats. Because they are so active during the daytime, you can bet that they will require a temperature range that is lower than what you would find in most temperatures.
For example, a cold tortoise in winter should hibernate in a colder environment with less activity to maintain adequate insulation. On the other hand, an outdoor tortoise who spends much of his time in direct sunlight at midday should have a warm temperature to prevent hair loss.
Wood turtles
The hardy species is the leatherback, which is native to the Mediterranean and Africa. These turtles are very intelligent and will choose your bedroom as their hibernation retreat!
If you have a large wood turtle in your home, then it should be considered a luxury item. They are priced higher than other turtles, making it not feasible to keep them for any length of time.
They do require water regularly, so make sure you provide an adequate water source. If you have to go for a long period of time without him, give him plenty of water to keep him alive.
Being smart enough to know you are sleeping soundly, they will stay warm by staying on their substrate! As stated before, they do require heat from a source, so make sure they are comfortable.
Russian golden satellites
The Russian golden satellite is one of the most unusual tortoises in the world. It is named for its beautiful yellow and red markings that can range from subtle to bold.
These markings consist of a circle around the black shell, as well as longer lines that extend down the shell. These markings make up its mascot, the yellow line.
The Russian golden satellite is native to Russia and Northern Europe. It can also be found in North Africa, Central Asia, and South Asia. These individuals can reach a length of over 17 feet!
They are very social creatures, tending to live in large groups called guilds. In order to hibernate, you must join a guild and learn how to go dormant.