Aesop, the Desert Tortoise Gets a Bath
Our desert tortoise, Aesop, has been a fun addition to our life ever since we adopted him three years ago. He typically becomes quite active beginning in June, after a very long winter’s nap. As a result, his curious nature has him coming out to see us when we venture out into the garden. The kids like to pet his shell while I stroke Aesop’s head.
Aesop sleeps just over six months out of the year, so we treasure the summer months when he is active. A couple of weeks ago, he came over to visit me on the backyard patio, and I noticed how dirty his shell was – likely due to hibernating in a hole all winter long. So, I decided that he needed a bath.
I wasn’t sure if he would like it or not – my dogs don’t and try to get away whenever they see me holding the hose, but Aesop seemed to enjoy his bath.
He stood perfectly still until it was over and then turned to me as if to say, “that’s all”?
A couple of minutes later, he was stretched out, relaxing after his refreshing bath.
I must admit that I never realized how entertaining having a desert tortoise as a pet could be and Aesop continues to surprise us with his curious nature and antics.
Aesop, The Desert Tortoise Discovers The Vegetable Garden
Noelle Johnson, aka, 'AZ Plant Lady' is a author, horticulturist, and landscape consultant who helps people learn how to create, grow, and maintain beautiful desert gardens that thrive in a hot, dry climate. She does this through her consulting services, her online class Desert Gardening 101, and her monthly membership club, Through the Garden Gate. As she likes to tell desert-dwellers, "Gardening in the desert isn't hard, but it is different."
Oh my gosh, that is so cute! Our dog lies like that, with his belly on the cool tile floor. I had no idea that tortoises could do it too.
Hi Pam,
I had no idea that he would react that way and it was so funny. I’ll have to give him one more often since he clearly liked it!
My Mum& Dad in-laws had a Desert Tortoise when they lived in Huntington Beach, CA. I believe they passed it on to a neighbor in the ‘hood. You know, the tortoise had acclimated to HB, so why move move him/her? Theirs was named Emily. I can’t wait to ask Margaret (my Mum-in-law)! She loved Emily. And all the snakes… (eye roll)
thanks Noelle
S.
Such an interesting idea for a pet! Is this common to your area?
Hi Robin,
They are more common than you would think and fun to have.