Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey all,
I was gonna buy a hatchling eastern but then I found out it was the runt of its clutch when the guy sent me a pic. All his siblings were bigger than him. The guy said he hasn't seen much growth but he eats. Is this common in baby boxers? Or is this cause for concern? I'm sure all of you who breed boxers would know as I'm fairly knew to them...I'd be curious as to what you all think.

Thanks,
-Jesse

I have received the runt of the litter before and have not had any problems with them. They grew slower but both are ok. I got them because I felt they needed extra TLC. I have heard of other people's experiences with the runt of the litter and several have lost those turtles to a mysterious death, but it has happened to large size hatchlings as well. I don't think there can be guarantees when dealing with hatchlings of any size. I would not let size deter me unless the turtle is exceptionally small. Is it is eating and defecating normally? Those are good signs. How old is the hatchling?
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Tess
Kingsnake.com Forum Host

Hey Tess,
Thanks for your reply. I too got the runt because I felt it needed extra care and most likely wasn't getting that, plus I got a good deal on him so I figured what the heck. He's eating well and otherwise doing ok except showing little to no growth but hes still young. I have had aquatic runts pull through but just wasn't sure if boxers were maybe at least somewhat different. I'll make sure he gets plenty of uvb and eats well, hopefully he will start growing. Thanks again.

-Jesse

Jesse, let us know how he fares. I think he found a good home
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Tess
Kingsnake.com Forum Host