Reptile & Amphibian Forums

First of all- Does anyone have any experience with the leopard tortoise? I recently bought one and wanted to know other people's experiences with them. Are they tough to raise, or are they hardy? I know the sulcatas can be friendly, but what about these guys- I keep hearing mixed ideas about this stuff. Just wondering!

Also, and more importantly- my guy keeps doing this weird thing where (this is going to be hard to explain) he sort of pumps his head, arms, and back legs in and out of his shell. I have no clue what this means- I've been doing some research and just can't figure it out. I'm guessing it might be some sort of response to stress? Can anyone help? Thanks!

Leos, tend to be on the shy side, so you wont get the great personality as a russian or sulc. has, they will go in there shells when apporched, and will just be more shy. But she might open up, and with regular looking and time he will get less shy. THe pumping is normal.

I have owned my leopard tortoise for five months now. I have also cared for two other leopard torts in the past and I've found that they each have very unique personalities. My guy is very hardy and not easily stressed. Initially, he was a bit shy, but within a month, he seemed less prone to hiding when I handled him. However, the other two stress very easily and it has taken them months to settle into their new living situation. They seem to be doing great now.
Also, one of the torts was bullying another one. That was really stressing the little guy out. As a result, he continues to be more shy, even after getting his own tank.

I don't have much experience with other types of tortoises, so I can't compare them to leopards.

Also, they all do the pumping thing. It's almost like they're revving up

Hope that helped. This is my first post.

Mariam

My Leopard is a snow leopard of 2 years old. He's an absolute doll!!! He enjoys getting his head rubbed, and is so much fun to watch as he wanders about the lawns of his home. Very personable!

it's a breathing thing, the tort may be alittle nervous / cautious and getting ready to withdraw if so desires

email me at epirog@comcast.net and I'll send you a copy of a really good article on leopards.

Ed

>>First of all- Does anyone have any experience with the leopard tortoise? I recently bought one and wanted to know other people's experiences with them. Are they tough to raise, or are they hardy? I know the sulcatas can be friendly, but what about these guys- I keep hearing mixed ideas about this stuff. Just wondering!
>>
>>Also, and more importantly- my guy keeps doing this weird thing where (this is going to be hard to explain) he sort of pumps his head, arms, and back legs in and out of his shell. I have no clue what this means- I've been doing some research and just can't figure it out. I'm guessing it might be some sort of response to stress? Can anyone help? Thanks!
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Ed @ Tortoise Keepers
Trying to keep the fun in Chelonian care