Choosing a Cherry Head...

[mom2twinsplus2]

I am trying to decide between an 8 week old (?) hatchling cherry head that still has its egg tooth, a summer 2009 Cherry Head or a 2008 Cherry Head. 

I have kids and we would love for the tort to be social and friendly as soon as possible and I know the younger the hatchling, the shy-er in general so that is making me think go for the 2008s but watching a tiny one grow would be awesome as well.

I really don't want any too delicate...I am not clear on how much more delicate/risky the hatchlings are or on how long the shy stage lasts.

Would the hatchlings need any special care than the older ones do not need?

One cool thing with the hatchlings is that they are available in both red and orange...that could be cool, I think?  I never saw and orange cherry head.

The older ones are temp sexed...the babies are totally anybody's guess.

Any thoughts on what is best to choose? 

I am very new to torts but I do have two Russians that we LOVE.  I know the care for the cherry's will be totally different.  Does the spring mix that the Russians get for their basic food work for the greens part of the cherry diet or not really?  I know I will need meat and fruit for the cherry.

Thanks for any help!

Alison

[t_mclellan]

My thought would be to opt for the older animal.
A 1 tear old still has a lot of growing to do & hopefully is better established.
Even a temp sexed animal can be incorrect. But hay, you still have a 50/50 shot!

[Joe H]

Hi Allison

Hatchlings are great.

The spring mix is good as part of the diet. For more diet info visit http://redfoottortoise.com

[Upstart68]

I would also opt for the older already established animal