Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I just got a golden greek, and he's my first tortoise experience. I've tried to give him a bath twice now. The first time he thrashed around (he's a pretty active fellow) until I took him out. The second time he soaked peacefully for about a minute and then tried to climb out.

Any suggestions on why he isn't enjoying his bath? If he's acting unhappy about it, how often should I give him one and how long should I leave him in the water?

He is unhappy due to the fact that he is not use to comming into contact with standing water in the wild. However they do come into contact with water in the form of rain and dew dropes. It is very hard to simulate thay and keep the humidity down where it needs to be. So keep giving him a bath 2 or 3 times a week. Make sure that the water is not above his head and is feels just a little warm to you. This will keep him well hidrated, and make him a happy tortoies. Good luck!!! Send me some photos?
Mark

Thanks for the info. This is Filbert (his shell is about 5 inches long):

Looks good! Next time try to not get so close with the camera. The photo is a little blury. He looks good though. You can email me with any questions.
Here is a photo of mine!

That's a lovely group you've got.

My picture demonstrates the limitations of a digital camera. My friend who took the picture for me had to crop it to make the file small enough, and the pixillation makes it look bad.

At what temps can I start bringing my tortoise outside? It's cold here in new england right now. How careful should I be about putting him on grass that has been fertilized in the past?

Be very carefull about putting him on fert. grass! I don't know how long it takes for it to work it's way out, but it is not worth the risk to me. You also need to be carefull with humidity. Mine only go out for visit during the summer months. I live in the midwest and humidity is very high here. So just remmeber that your friend comes from a very dry climate.
As far as your camera, I like the HP 935 and 945. They have great macro modes. They are also 5.3 meg pix.

Yes, I've read that they need low humidity. In the summer he'll be in my airconditioned room (with his heat light of course) with daytime romps around the house and yard. He's already found a favorite place to nap - just out of arms reach under the stereo cabinet!