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Trimming Box Turtle beak?

J

Jasmine88

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Hi, I'm getting a box turtle with an over-grown beak sent to me tomorrow and I was wondering how you trim a beak on a turtle that can close it's shell like they do. I'm afraid to hold the head tight like I've read that you can do, anyway, I've always been afraid they would get crushed. Does anyone know if there is a way to do it, will they use a cuttlebone or any certain type of food to wear it down? I've even wondered about a beef bone with a little meat on it. What do you think? Thank you!
Deb
 
You want to grab the head by the sides to keep it out and still. It actually helps if you have to people- one to hold and one to trim.

I would try the cuttlebone first to see if that helps. Also feed on a slate tile. If the beak is too overgrown the tortoise may have trouble eating, which is where trimming would definitely come to play.

http://www.cheloniancare.com/trim-tortoise-beak/
 
A slate slab, I wouldn't have thought of that, he might rub his beak against it while eating... Thank you! I'll try that and the cuttlebone first and see if it helps!
Deb
 
Yep. The tile helps keep the food off the substrate and potentially files down the beak while eating. It can help with nails too, as the tortoise walks on it.
 
I feed all of my boxies with clay potting dishes. They wear down the beak, are inexpensive and contain liquid from spilling into the substrate unlike a tile. After every feeding I toss them in a bleach/water mix (1/10) to soak, then rinse and air dry.
 
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