HELP! axi owner has aquired a tortoise

[Mojojomo]

Hello Guys.

Sorry to post this in here but i was wondering if anyone could help me.

My boyfriend has found a small tortoise in a box at work. (he works at a scrap metal place) and it came in in a skip. The tortoise doesn't smell (like dead)or anything and is about 10cm long.

Does anyone know anything about tortoises ? as it isn't moving ?

Thanks x

 

[oceanblue]

Tortoises hibernate so it might be alive. Gentle warming followed by feeding with green vegetables after it awakes may help. Alternatively keep it frost free but cool while you get better advice. Imports of tortoises are currently restricted and most UK stock is captive bred and expensive. You may need a licence to keep it. The RSPCA is often a good contact for found animals.

Try doing an internet search to find out what species it is as some have very different requirements to others.

 

[Tappers]

I would start here:http://www.shelledwarriors.co.uk/forum/

There's a good chance that some poor soul is missing their tortoise - it may well be microchipped if it's over 4" shell length.

If it stirs it will need a heatlamp and bathing in tepid water to rehydrate. Once it is up and warm you can offer it some weeds such as dandelion, chickweed, goose grass, clover or perhaps a bit of lettuce if you can't find any dandelions.

A tortoise revives by using stored glycogen from the liver so it really will be running on empty.

Good luck and feel free to contact me if you need more help!

oceanblue is right about keeping it cool - my three are still in their fridge but if you've had it at room temperature since finding it then you may need to wake it properly.