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A C Highfield Definition: Outdoor or natural hibernation consists of allowing the tortoise to excavate its own burrow instead of hibernating it in a box under controlled conditions. In the wild tortoises usually dig themselves in under large rocks, tree roots, or into the side of earthen ledges. Excavations may be several feet deep. Some species, such as Testudo horsfieldi, excavate burrows that are several meters long. In captivity:
Natural hibernation offers some advantages, and some
disadvantages. In its favour, freezing is very unlikely
to occur - even under severe weather conditions - as at
anything beyond a few inches underground temperatures
are very stable indeed. Even in the most severe weather,
frosts rarely penetrate more than 2 inches deep. The disadvantages of the method, however, include:-
Do not allow tortoises to burrow in an area where
flooding is possible Perform extra-careful health
checks throughout the summer and especially during the
period immediately prior to hibernation! The area
above a hibernating tortoise can be protected by
covering the ground with wire mesh - but be watch out in
warm weather as the tortoise may be trying to emerge! References: Safer Hibernation & Your Tortoise (1986-1992)
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