Burmese Mountain Tortoise Care Sheet

This Burmese Mountain Tortoise Care has a heavy, domed shell with a brown or black coloration, sometimes showing lighter markings. Its limbs are strong and equipped with large scales, which help it navigate the rugged terrains of its natural habitat.

In captivity, Burmese Mountain Tortoises require a large, secure enclosure with plenty of space to roam. The enclosure should mimic their natural environment, with access to a warm, humid area, shaded spots, and a water source for soaking. They are herbivorous, feeding on a diet that includes leafy greens, fruits, and occasional vegetables.

Burmese Mountain Tortoises are known for their relatively calm and gentle demeanor. However, they grow quite large, sometimes exceeding 100 pounds, and require significant space and care. Lifespan can extend to over 50 years with proper care, making it a long-term commitment for any reptile enthusiast.

Species Summary

The Burmese Mountain Tortoise (Manouria emys) is a large tortoise native to Southeast Asia, including Myanmar, Thailand, and Malaysia. Adults typically measure 14 to 24 inches in shell length and can weigh over 100 pounds. They thrive in tropical forests, often near water sources, and have a lifespan of over 50 years in captivity.

This species is herbivorous, with a diet consisting mainly of leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables. Known for their calm and gentle demeanor, they require large, secure enclosures that replicate their natural environment. The Burmese Mountain Tortoise is listed as vulnerable due to habitat loss and over-exploitation.

Appearance & Colors

The Burmese Mountain Tortoise has a robust, domed shell that is typically dark brown to black, often with lighter markings or streaks. The scutes (plates) on the shell are usually rough-textured, giving it a rugged appearance.

The tortoise’s limbs are sturdy and covered with large, overlapping scales that provide protection. The front legs are particularly powerful, aiding in digging and navigating rough terrain. The underside of the shell, or plastron, is lighter in color, usually a yellowish or light brown, contrasting with the darker carapace.

Lifespan

The Burmese Mountain Tortoise can live for over 50 years in captivity, with some individuals even reaching up to 60 years or more with proper care. In the wild, their lifespan may be shorter due to environmental challenges and threats such as habitat loss and predation. However, with the right conditions, including a balanced diet, appropriate habitat, and regular veterinary care, these tortoises can enjoy a long and healthy life. Their longevity makes them a significant long-term commitment for any keeper.

Average Size

Adult tortoises can weigh over 100 pounds (45 kg), with some individuals even exceeding this weight. Males tend to be slightly larger than females, but both sexes are known for their substantial size and robust build. The significant size of this species necessitates a spacious environment to accommodate their needs as they mature.

Burmese Mountain Tortoise Care

Caring for a Burmese Mountain Tortoise involves providing a spacious, secure outdoor enclosure with a substrate that retains moisture, such as topsoil mixed with coconut coir and leaf litter. The enclosure should include shaded areas and shelters, as well as strong fencing to prevent escape through digging. Daytime temperatures should be maintained between 80-90°F, with a basking spot around 95°F, and nighttime temperatures can drop to 70-75°F. Humidity levels need to be kept high, ideally between 70-90%, which can be managed with regular misting and a water source for soaking.

If kept indoors, a UVB light source is essential for calcium metabolism, but natural sunlight is preferable when housed outdoors. The tortoise’s diet should consist primarily of leafy greens like collard greens, dandelion greens, and romaine lettuce, with a variety of vegetables and occasional fruits like berries and apples. Calcium supplements are necessary for healthy shell and bone development. Fresh water should always be available, and a shallow dish or small pond for soaking is beneficial.

Enclosure Size

For a Burmese Mountain Tortoise, the enclosure should be large enough to accommodate their size and need for space. A minimum enclosure size of 10 x 10 feet (3 x 3 meters) is recommended for adult tortoises, though larger is preferable to allow for natural behaviors like walking, grazing, and digging.

For juvenile tortoises, a smaller space may suffice initially, but the enclosure should be expanded as they grow. If housing them indoors, the space should still be as large as possible, with an emphasis on providing room for exercise and exploration.

What To Put In Their Habitat

For a Burmese Mountain Tortoise habitat, use a deep, moisture-retaining substrate like a mix of topsoil, coconut coir, and leaf litter to support digging and humidity. Include shelters such as wooden boxes, hollow logs, or large rocks to provide privacy and protection. Provide a shallow water dish or small pond for drinking and soaking. Add live, non-toxic plants like ferns or hostas to create a natural environment and help with humidity.

Designate a basking area with a flat rock or platform under a heat source to reach around 95°F (35°C). Incorporate low, stable rocks or logs for climbing to keep the tortoise active. Ensure the enclosure has secure, sturdy fencing that extends underground to prevent escape. If kept indoors, install UVB lighting for calcium metabolism; outdoors, ensure the enclosure gets ample sunlight with shaded areas. Set up a designated feeding area with a flat surface that is easy to clean.

Temperature & Lighting

For Burmese Mountain Tortoises, maintain daytime temperatures between 80-90°F (27-32°C) across the enclosure. Use thermometers to monitor and adjust these temperatures as needed. If kept indoors, install UVB lighting to support calcium metabolism and prevent metabolic bone disease.

Replace UVB lamps every 6-12 months as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. For outdoor enclosures, ensure access to natural sunlight for essential UVB rays, and create shaded areas to prevent overheating. Maintain a 12-14 hour light cycle and 10-12 hours of darkness to support natural behavior and circadian rhythms.

Humidity

Maintain humidity levels between 70-90% for Burmese Mountain Tortoises. Use a moisture-retaining substrate, such as a mix of topsoil, coconut coir, and leaf litter, to help keep humidity high. Regular misting of the enclosure can help maintain the right humidity levels, and providing a shallow water dish or small pond allows for soaking and contributes to humidity. Monitor humidity with a hygrometer and adjust misting and water sources as needed. Ensure the enclosure is well-sealed to prevent excessive humidity loss and consider adding a humid hide to help maintain consistent humidity.

Water

The water source should be large enough for the tortoise to comfortably enter and exit but shallow enough to prevent drowning. Ensure the water is clean and fresh, and change it regularly to avoid contamination.

For indoor enclosures, consider using a water bowl that is easy to clean and refill. For outdoor setups, a small, shallow pond can serve as both a water source and a soaking area. Regular access to water is crucial for hydration and helps with shedding and overall health.

Burmese Mountain Tortoise Food & Diet

The diet of a Burmese Mountain Tortoise should include a variety of leafy greens like collard greens, dandelion greens, kale, and romaine lettuce, which provide essential nutrients and fiber. Include a range of vegetables such as squash, bell peppers, carrots, and green beans to add diversity and additional nutrients. Offer fruits like berries, apples, pears, and melons in moderation as treats, but avoid high-sugar fruits too frequently.

Regularly provide calcium supplements to support healthy shell and bone development and prevent metabolic bone disease. While some commercial tortoise diets or pellets can be included, they should not be the main part of their diet. Ensure a varied diet to avoid nutritional imbalances and avoid feeding toxic foods like avocado and rhubarb.

Potential Health Issues

Gargoyle geckos can experience various health issues if not properly cared for. Common problems include metabolic bone disease (MBD), caused by calcium deficiency, which leads to weakened bones and deformities. Respiratory infections can occur if their environment is too cold or humid.

Dehydration is another concern, especially if they do not have access to fresh water or if humidity levels are too low. Parasites, both internal and external, can also affect these geckos, leading to weight loss and lethargy.
Additionally, improper shedding can result in retained skin, particularly around the toes and eyes, which can cause further complications if not addressed.

Behavior & Temperament

Gargoyle geckos are generally known for their calm and docile temperament. These geckos can be handled, but it’s important to do so gently and with patience, as they may be skittish, especially when young. Over time, they often become more accustomed to handling and may even show curiosity toward their owner.

Gargoyle geckos can exhibit territorial behavior, particularly between males, so it’s usually recommended to house them individually unless you’re experienced in reptile care. They might also display defensive behaviors, such as tail wagging or vocalizing if they feel threatened. Despite these occasional displays, they are generally considered good pets for both beginners and experienced keepers due to their hardy nature and engaging personalities.

Handling Them

When handling Gargoyle geckos, it’s essential to be gentle and patient to ensure they feel secure and reduce stress. Begin by slowly approaching the gecko and allowing it to climb onto your hand rather than grabbing it, which can startle the animal. It’s best to handle them close to the ground or over a soft surface to prevent injury in case they jump or fall.

Young geckos may be more skittish and prone to jumping, so short handling sessions are recommended until they become more accustomed to you. Always support their body fully, and avoid squeezing them. Frequent, calm interactions can help build trust over time.

It’s important to note that Gargoyle geckos can drop their tails if they feel threatened, though their tails will regenerate. However, it’s best to avoid this stress response by handling them with care.

Conclusion

Gargoyle geckos are fascinating and relatively low-maintenance pets, making them a great choice for both beginners and experienced reptile enthusiasts. With proper care, including a suitable diet, habitat, and handling, these geckos can thrive and display their unique behaviors and charming personalities. By understanding their potential health issues, behavior, and handling needs, you can ensure a healthy and enriching environment for your Gargoyle gecko, leading to a rewarding and long-lasting companionship.