Dear Tad,

I’m a busy tortoise with important browsing to do but now it’s too hot to go out in the afternoons. Some days all I want to do is sleep. What’s wrong with me?

-Hot in Henderson

Hot,
You’re probably fine. It’s a bit toastier outside than usual for June but you’ll be ok. Remember when it got cold and you brumated all winter in your burrow? You protected your body from the cold and conserved resources by slowing down and sleeping.

In the summer you can estivate in that same burrow and get similar relief from the heat!
When I have urgent browsing needs I get up early to get it all done before it gets too hot out then park myself in my cozy burrow and wait the heat out.

*BONUS* This is an excellent time to remind your custodians to soak you three times a week. Hydration is important in the desert!

Have a question for an experienced desert tortoise? Write to [email protected] with “Dear Tad” in the subject line.