Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi,
I have never had a tortoise before, so I don't know if this is normal behavior, but my male Russian will bob his head up and down and make a light "clicking" sound. He will also "puff" air sometimes, or so it sounds like. Is this normal? Thanks.
-----
~Sarah
1.0 Mali Uromastyx (Draco)
1.0 Russian Tortoise (Pookie)
4.5.22 Millipedes (6 different species)

As far as the head bobbing, that is normal under certain conditions. Tortoises often engage in head bobbing to challenge other tortoises who are in their territory. Also, males often do it when approaching a female in order to find out if she is ready to mate. She will often bob her head back at him if she is receptive. Since you indicate you only have one tortoise, this scenario seems unlikely.

Tortoises also bob slightly when trying to pick up a scent, especially when they sense danger. Usually this is done with their head high in the air. People often mistake this for "wanting to be petted." As far as the clicking, that CAN be a sign of a respiratory problem. It could also be misaligned mandibles that click when he opens or closes his mouth. As far as the puffing of air, that is often done by torts when they are frightened suddenly. They are expelling air to make room for a deep retraction into their shell. Untame tortoises especially do this.

The key is.... how often does he do the puffing and clicking sounds? If he does it alot, you probably have a problem. Take him into a quiet place and hold him up to your ear and listen. Listen for at least 30 seconds or so. If you can hear clicking or huffing and puffing when he breathes, he has a respiratory problem and needs to be treated right away.