Preparing Your Tortoise for Safe Hibernation

Contrary to popular belief, not all tortoise species require hibernation during winter. Tropical tortoises, for example, should never undergo hibernation. For other species, hibernation is typically necessary only if you intend to breed them. It's important to note that small, sick, or underweight tortoises should not be hibernated. The four species most commonly hibernated in the UK are the Spur Thighed, Horsfield's, Marginated, and Hermann's Tortoises. This guide focuses on safely preparing any of these species for hibernation, promoting responsible husbandry and animal welfare. Find tortoises for sale to begin caring responsibly.

Preparation for Hibernation

To prepare your tortoise properly, it must be in good health and of suitable weight. From early August, monitor your tortoise's weight and overall condition, as this period marks their peak appetite and fitness. Feeding a nutrient-rich diet of fresh leafy greens and vegetables is essential. Additionally, supplementing with calcium and vitamin D3 can support shell health and overall vitality. Regular health checks by your vet in late summer help identify any illnesses or nutritional deficiencies that could jeopardise safe hibernation.

Six weeks before the planned hibernation date—usually between mid-October and early November—stop feeding your tortoise and remove access to grazing areas. Tortoises have very slow metabolisms, so it is vital that they have an empty digestive tract before hibernation. However, continue providing fresh water at all times. During the last two weeks before hibernation, give your tortoise daily lukewarm baths to aid hydration and encourage urination.

Gradually lower the temperature of your tortoise's enclosure during the fortnight before hibernation to slow its metabolism naturally. Only hibernate your tortoise if it is fully hydrated and has not urinated recently, as water balance is crucial for survival during dormancy.

Choosing the Right Hibernation Method

Two main methods are recommended for hibernating tortoises: using a specially controlled refrigerator or an insulated box. The refrigerator method is increasingly preferred due to easier temperature control and monitoring, although a dedicated fridge separate from food storage is advisable for hygiene and temperature stability.

Prepare a ventilated plastic Tupperware container slightly larger than your tortoise. Line the base with kitchen towels and create breathing holes in the lid. Use a thermometer probe to maintain the fridge temperature steadily around 5#6C, never allowing temperatures to drop below freezing or exceed 10#6C.

Daily visual checks are necessary to monitor your tortoise’s wellbeing and to oxygenate the storage container. Weigh your tortoise twice a week to track health status during hibernation.

The insulated box method involves placing the Tupperware container inside a large cardboard box filled with polystyrene peanuts for insulation and airflow. Store this setup in a room maintaining a comfortable steady temperature between 1#6C and 10#6C. Monitor temperature daily and perform the same checks as in the fridge method.

Monitoring Your Tortoise During Hibernation

Regular monitoring is vital. Healthy tortoises typically lose about 1% of their body weight per month during hibernation. If weight loss exceeds this, or if your tortoise urinates, shows illness, or signs of distress, you should end hibernation immediately and seek veterinary advice.

Waking Your Tortoise Safely

Hibernation commonly lasts 2 to 3 months. With the insulated box method, tortoises awaken naturally as ambient temperatures rise above 10#6C. In the fridge method, you will need to gently warm your tortoise by moving it to a heated vivarium or near an ambient heat source, allowing it to regain activity over several hours.

Once alert and moving, encourage drinking first by placing your tortoise in shallow, warm water. After it drinks, offer food; most tortoises resume normal eating within three days. If your tortoise refuses food for longer than this, it may be experiencing post-hibernation anorexia. Prompt veterinary consultation is essential to check for infections or other health issues and stimulate appetite.

By following these carefully researched, step-by-step procedures, you can ensure your tortoise’s hibernation is safe and enhances its wellbeing through seasonal dormancy. Consult your vet for advice specific to your tortoise's species and health.