Possible Wet Burrow

With rains like we’ve had lately, it’s important to check your tortoise burrows for puddles or flooding. Keep checking for several days, as flooding may occur after the rain has stopped when rain in the top and surrounding soil drains into the burrow channel.

• If it is cloudy or nighttime, use a very powerful flashlight. Lie on a drop cloth or tarp. Unless the burrow channel turns and the end is out of sight, you should be able to see the tortoise and any puddles.
• Also, try sliding down the burrow a long stick or hose with a piece of medium-colored cloth attached. If it comes out wet, you’ll want to dig up the tortoise. For details on Digging Up the Tortoise, click here.