Disorders of the Shell

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Malnutrition is widespread among captive desert tortoises, with

especially devastating consequences to hatchlings.  Inadequate

mineral intake (too much lettuce and salad items) results in an

unhealthy, soft or malformed shell.  Injuries to the shell

caused by automobiles and lawn mowers are common, especially in

the spring, when tortoises come out of hibernation.  Great

caution should be exercised when dogs are allowed access to

desert tortoises.  Dogs often cause serious injuries to the shell

and the extremities of tortoises.



Shell rot (one or more erosions of the upper and/or lower shell)

usually occurs as a result of injury to the shell or exposure to

filthy environmental conditions.  Infectious diseases can also be

associated with this disorder.