All,
I out my two Russians into an outdoor hibernaculum about four weeks ago.
They both seems fine when I put them in, having been pretty much dormant for the entire month before. (completely dry, never gets wet or damp, out of the sun)
I've been checking them once a week since going under, and so far they have been fine. Good weight, no noticeable weight loss, eyes closed, and clear nostrils.
Today, the male seemed to be making a "snap, crackle, pop" sound. This sound is so faint, I had to walk indoors in order to hear it. In fact, I had to get my eight year old to listen to. She said it's barely there.
Does this indicate a possible respiratory infection? He seems completely out, although all of his limbs were sticking out and fairly limp. He has no seepage anywhere: nose and eyes are clear, although his eyes are closed.
1.) Should I bring him out of hibernation or let him continue?
2.) If yes, how do I do that?
3.) If I do wake him up, what is the bare minimum I need to keep him over the winter? These torts live in an outdoor pen all summer, so I really don't have any indoor set up and am short on space.
Thanks.
