Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Greetings all;

I've been all over the net reading on various types of substrates that are being recommended for the California Desert Tortoise.

Unfortunately there isn't a "perfect substrate" and a few of the "recommended substrates" are not recommended by others.

I'm currently using Alfalfa/Rabbit Pellets, which seem to work very well. Other than the consideration of how quickly mold can grow and the need to constantly monitor this substrate for wetness & mold, it seems to be working very well.

I've read the controversy over the possibility (the remote possibility that is) of impaction if/when the tortoise chooses to eat the pellets (Due to swelling when moistened).

Fortunately the "good" and positive results of this substrate as well as in the area if ingestion seems to out number the "bad" and negative experiences of herp keepers in general. In fact, my tortoise occasionally likes to much on his pellets, to drive me nuts no doubt.

The thing is that it seems to me that using substrates such as Alfalfa Hay and the various types of hay out there is not only more realistic, but helps the overall "warmth" of the terrarium...just my opinion though.

So I welcome all suggestions and contrasting points-of-view.

Thank you,

Mista Herp

Hello All;

Aside from my original post, I'd like to also get your opinion on the following suggestion from the "World Chelonian Trust" located at the following link:

http://www.chelonia.org/Articles/Gagassiziicare.htm

The following is an excerpt on the use of a substrate combo mix, to enhance the naturalistic features of the Desert Tortoise's habitat:

"...As an alternative to hay and to more closely mimic their
natural habitat, a mixture of 50% clean topsoil without herbicides, fertilizers or other additives and 50% playsand may be used. As waste products will be more difficult to detect with such a substrate it is recommended that if using this soil mix that one replace all of it at regularly scheduled intervals such as every 6 weeks or so."

Mista Herp