Lighting
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UVB Lighting: The 65-watt UVB bulb should provide good coverage for your tortoise, but make sure the distance between the bulb and your tortoise is within the recommended range (typically 12-18 inches for optimal UVB exposure). UVB is essential for calcium metabolism and overall health, so you're on the right track!
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Basking Lights: The 100-watt bulbs on either side will likely help with providing the necessary heat for the warm side, but always ensure they don’t overheat the enclosure. You want a basking spot that reaches about 95-100°F (35-38°C), with the warm side sitting at around 85-90°F (29-32°C).
Temperature Check
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Warm Side (87°F): This temperature is great for the warm side. It’s slightly on the lower end but still in the right range for many tortoise species.
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Cool Side (79°F): This is a little higher than ideal for the cool side. You typically want it to be closer to 70-75°F (21-24°C) to create a proper thermal gradient. You might want to adjust the lighting or move the cooler elements slightly to ensure there's a good temperature difference.
Dig Box
- Adding a dig box on the cool side is a fantastic idea! Many tortoises enjoy digging and burrowing, and it will help them feel more comfortable. Just ensure the substrate is safe for digging and won’t cause impaction. A mix of organic soil and sand works well for most tortoises.
Diet and Forage
- Along with creating the perfect environment, make sure your tortoise has a balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh, high-fibre foods. For added enrichment, you can offer natural forages. Check out the variety available at Guinea Gourmet Treats: https://www.guineagourmettreats.co.uk.
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