Re: Substrate: alfalfa vs. cypress mulch

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Posted by Kathy on August 17, 2000 at 20:33:43:

In Reply to: Substrate: alfalfa vs. cypress mulch posted by Jen B on August 17, 2000 at 17:20:00:

Jen,
The alfalfa pellets aren't supposed to be that great because when they get wet they tend to grow mold. Also, alfalfa isn't a food that's recommended as an *always* food (because it's a little high in protien) and your new tort may chow down on it. I don't know that the mulch would be good because it would retain moisture and hermanns are native to hot, dry environments. I'm sure others who house indoors will pipe in with suggestions. But here's a great link to download a 20-page book by Linda King on rearing mediterranean torts.
Good luck with your new tort,
Kathy

: After a fair amount of research, I am still confused about the best substrate to use for my soon-to-arrive hermann's tortoise. I have purchased both alfalfa pellets and cypress mulch. The mulch is a little easier to obtain in bulk, and a little cheaper. But it has thin shreds that I'm afraid the tort might ingest, as well as sharp chips that I'm afraid could wound it. This is my first tort, so I'm feeling a little protective (or paranoid--I even start worrying that there may be tiny pests in it). Am I being overly careful? Is cypress mulch fine? Or should I stick with alfalfa pellets? Or is there another safe and inexpensive substrate that I should consider?

A guide to Rearing Mediterranean Tortoises

Follow Ups:

Re: Substrate: alfalfa problems... topsoil? Jen B 08/18/00 (3)
- Re: Substrate: alfalfa problems... topsoil? Kathy 08/18/00 (1)
  - Thanks Kathy Jen B 08/22/00 (0)
- Re: Substrate: alfalfa problems... topsoil? Eric T. 08/18/00 (0)

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: Jen, : The alfalfa pellets aren't supposed to be that great because when they get wet they tend to grow mold. Also, alfalfa isn't a food that's recommended as an *always* food (because it's a little high in protien) and your new tort may chow down on it. I don't know that the mulch would be good because it would retain moisture and hermanns are native to hot, dry environments. I'm sure others who house indoors will pipe in with suggestions. But here's a great link to download a 20-page book by Linda King on rearing mediterranean torts. : Good luck with your new tort, : Kathy : : After a fair amount of research, I am still confused about the best substrate to use for my soon-to-arrive hermann's tortoise. I have purchased both alfalfa pellets and cypress mulch. The mulch is a little easier to obtain in bulk, and a little cheaper. But it has thin shreds that I'm afraid the tort might ingest, as well as sharp chips that I'm afraid could wound it. This is my first tort, so I'm feeling a little protective (or paranoid--I even start worrying that there may be tiny pests in it). Am I being overly careful? Is cypress mulch fine? Or should I stick with alfalfa pellets? Or is there another safe and inexpensive substrate that I should consider?

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