Table of Contents
Why is my sulcata tortoise pyramiding?
In the wild tortoises typically walk miles while foraging. The more exercise they get, the more protein is needed. Excess protein in the diet causes the shell to put down heavy layers of keratin. This results in conical scutes giving rise to the appearance of pyramids.
Can pyramiding on a tortoise be reversed?
The simple answer to this is unfortunately no. Once the effects of pyramiding have manifested there is no way to reverse them, the structure of the shell as well as the underlying bone structure have permanently formed a certain way, just as they would otherwise permanently form in the correct way.
How do you stop the sulcata pyramiding?
Tips to help prevent pyramiding in your tortoise
- Ensure proper humidity levels for your species of tortoise.
- Provide a high fiber, low-calorie, low protein diet.
- Provide all day access to food vs.
- Feed plants and greens that have a high bioavailability of calcium or supplement with calcium carbonate or calcium citrate.
What does it mean when a tortoise is pyramiding?
Pyramiding is the raising of scutes during active growth periods in tortoises. As a tortoise grows normally each scute increases in size horizontally thus increasing the overall diameter of each scute and the size of the tortoise. During normal growth this scute enlargement will lead to smooth growth.
Can I file my tortoises shell?
To file it i would recommend a vets trip as they will be more experienced and know what to do. Tortoise and turtles have nerves in their shell which allows them feeling but not pain but only til a certain depth so i wouldnt recommend trying it.
How do you treat tortoise pyramiding?
How to Treat Pyramiding in Tortoises
- Maintain proper humidity levels for your tortoise species.
- Provide the appropriate temperature gradient for your tortoise.
- Promote physical activity and exercise.
- Arrange a diet high in fiber, low in calories, and low in protein.
Should tortoises have bumpy shells?
It’s normal. Pyramiding is common amongst tortoises in captivity but is not unheard of in the wild. The reason why pyramiding is not as well-documented is because tortoises in the wild have ways to smooth out their shells naturally.
How do I know if my tortoise is pyramiding?
Symptoms of pyramiding are individual scutes being raised above the normal dome shape of the shell to form what appear to be pyramids. This deformation can be severe or minor.
Do tortoises need Cuttlebone?
Cuttlefish bones, while not entirely necessary for your tortoise enclosure, can certainly help enhance your tortoise’s life. It’s not just a great source of calcium, but it can help wear down their beaks the natural and, most importantly, safe way.
How often should you give tortoises calcium?
2-3 times a week
Vitamin / calcium supplements such as Reptavite or Nutrobal can be sprinkled onto the tortoise’s food 2-3 times a week. If the tortoise is being housed in an enclosure that has natural vegetation then additional feeding should be rarely offered, and when it is, it should only be to add supplements.
What happens if A tortoise has too much calcium?
Too much calcium can result in the calcification of certain body parts. Calcification occurs when there’s a buildup of calcium in soft tissues, organs, and blood cells. A large calcium buildup can cause the tortoise pain, depending on where it has accumulated.