Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Here in central MA, we're getting some hot and steamy weather...around 80-90 F with up to around 70% humidity.
In the spring and fall, temps can get pretty chilly, and obviously humidity will be lower.

Winters obviously can get pretty dang cold...-10F sometimes. Obviously unless the tort was underground somewhere deep it wouldn't be hibernating outside.
I'd probably overwinter in the stairwell going to the attic (not IN the attic...but the stairwell...its pretty consistent for temps).

Also, I'll probably be building an indoor pen (about 3X8 feet) for nights and early spring/late fall. Larger might be possible....

So any thoughts? Any and all species that could be compatible
would be welcome....

As a former long time Massachusetts North Shore (Manchester) resident I'd be inclined to go with a Redfoot, either a normal or Cherryhead. All of arid species, Greek's, Russian's, Marginated, Star's, and Herman's, are all going to struggle with respiratory issues because of the humidity.

Redfoot's are readily available (Ed Priog has some great looking Cherryheads for sale on the tortoise classified section)as hatchlings or adults. They are very hardy, eat a wide variety of foods items and excel in areas with daytime temps in the 80's and humidity above 60%. The only difference in western Mass vs. the coast is one of cooler nights on the coast and slightly higher humidity. Aside from that, most tropical species would do well outdoors in any part of Mass from May through Setpember/October.

Having lived through many a summer that felt as much like Miami they would be my first choice for a tort in Massachusetts.

Good Luck!

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