Reptile & Amphibian Forums

We finished his new outdoor habitat this weekend and finally
he got to go out unsupervised. I was so excited! The problem
is he doesn't seem to like it. He paces constantly and has
acted really kinda pissy at me. I am putting him out 3-4
hours at a time to try to get him used to it. After getting
back into the house yesterday afternoon he hid out the rest
of the day. His new pen is 8'long by 3' wide complete with
plants, mulch, and hide places.

Is this behavior normal?

Linda

1) You've drastically changed his environment
2) Herps become much more stimulated when outdoors. They can become more aggressive, active, etc.

These two things in combination, the stress of change and the stimulatin of being outdoors, can cause temporary problems.

As long as the enclosure provides all that the tortoise needs in the way of heat, shade, humidity and cover, the tort will be OK.

Although I do not personally work with Red-foots, I would say this behaviour is normal. Most tortoises, indeed most reptiles, have well established and carefully monitored territories. It is very upsetting when these territories are changed, and some released reptiles never settle down and establish themselves, hence the poor success of some repatriation projects. However, Peabody will probably become happier and content, be sure he has some nice hide-outs (hollow log? bushes? burrows?) where he has a choice of privacy and humidity. Getting him outside is a big change and probably a good thing. Peabodymay be a bit disoriented now, but will probably settle in and accept his new territory. Good luck,Vic

n/p