Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have a modest collection of Hermann's tortoises that live outside most of the year in the Mid Atlantic USA. They hibernate in a fridge through February. I have a period where they must eat "store bought" greens. There is a large Asian market nearby that sells a variety of Asian greens. Does anyone have any good info on best greens to offer? I primarily use dandelion, Romaine, green leaf, occasional mustard or turnip green. There are so many others that are unfamiliar (and cheaper!).

>>I primarily use dandelion, Romaine, green leaf, occasional mustard or turnip green. There are so many others that are unfamiliar (and cheaper!).

I have used all of those you listed above along with other dark lettuces and collard greens. I think the key is variety. Don't feed them just one type of green. Buy a couple different types each week and make a little salad. Don't forget the calcium/vitamin powder.

The one problem I find with grocery greens is that they are low in fiber, which leads to loose stools. When I'm feeding my Russian tortoises a lot of greens I also mix in some type of canned tortoise diet that is high in fiber. Pretty Pets, RepCal or Mazuri. I make it a small part of the diet for a few weeks a year so the animals don't suffer with loose stools. The rest of the year I try to feed my Russians weeds from the yard, a few greens and small portions of fresh veggies like carrots and squash.