Notes on Baby Madagascan Radiated Tortoise Care

Introduction

• Discussion of a baby Madagascan radiated tortoise.
• Baby tortoises can fend for themselves right after hatching; they need no parental guidance.

Survival Instincts

• Tortoises instinctively look for cover immediately after hatching.
• They seek microclimates with humidity and protection from predators.
• Tortoises often hide under leaf litter or debris near grazing areas.
• They remain hidden for about 90% of the time.

Key Points for Proper Care

Four Main Aspects

1. Humidity and Substrate
2. Food and Water
3. Refuge
4. Lighting

Humidity

• Vital for baby tortoises' health.
• A closed chamber can be created using a 66-quart storage tote (16" wide, 23" long, 13-14" high).
• Moisture can accumulate inside the chamber, creating a suitable microclimate.
• Substrate is crucial for humidity retention.
  • Recommended substrate includes cypress mulch, reptosoil, and sand.
  • Avoid aspen shavings as they do not retain moisture.
  • Aim for at least 4 inches of substrate depth for burrowing.

Food and Water

• Diet should be high in fiber, high in calcium, and low in protein.
• Tortoises are opportunistic feeders and will eat a variety of food.
• Recommended diet includes Missouri Tortoise diet formula mixed with organic greens (e.g., dandelions).
• Include phosphorus-free calcium powder with Vitamin D3 monthly.
  • Cuttlefish bone can be provided for tortoises to chew on for calcium.
• Provide shallow water dishes for hydration (e.g., terracotta saucer).

Security and Refuge

• Security is crucial to prevent stress, which is harmful to tortoises.
• Provide hiding areas using live or fake plants and logs.

Lighting

• UVB lighting is important for tortoises, particularly sun-dwelling species.
• Coil UVB bulbs can be beneficial if used correctly (13-14 inches above the tortoises).
• Use a low-wattage spotlight (about 50 watts) for heating the closed chamber.
• Proper lighting helps replicates natural basking behavior.

Conclusion

• Effective care in a controlled environment leads to healthy growth and development of baby tortoises.
• Suggest exploring bioactive setups with isopods and springtails for easier substrate maintenance.