In this article, we are going to find out if tortoises can eat blackberry bushes.
Remember, that we once clarified that horsefield tortoises can eat blackberries fruit but it should be occasionally and in smaller quantities.
It is fed in smaller quantities because of the oxalic acids contained in it.
So, what about blackberry bushes – can a horsefield tortoise eat blackberry bushes?
Feeding horsefield tortoises with blackberry bushes isn’t a bad idea. They can be fed with the blackberry fruits, and leaves in small quantities.
But for the blackberry stems and roots which have been found to have medicinal advantages, they should only be fed on harvesting at a very young age.
By then, they contain beneficial nutrients and are not woody.
Find more from the remaining article below.
Can Horsefield Tortoises Eat Blackberry Bushes?
Blackberries grow in three ways depending on if it is self-support or supported by another framework.
When supported by a framework or trellis that type of blackberry is known as Trailing thornless blackberries.
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The other two types of blackberries are known as the Blackberry Bushes. They are the Erect blackberries with thorns and the Erect blackberries without thorns.
As seen above Blackberry bushes are erect and will contain fruits, stems, leaves, and roots.
Can horsefield tortoises eat them and are they safe?
Yes, horsefield tortoises can eat the fruits, and leaves only occasionally and in small quantities. This is because of the oxalic acids found in the fruits that inhibits proper tortoiseshell formation.
What about the stems and roots of the Blackberry bushes? Are they safe?
Blackberry stems and roots have been used for medicinal purposes and are not dangerous in very small quantities. But you have to harvest and peel both the stem and roots at a very young age when they are not woody.
They should be fed in smaller quantities than the amount fed using blackberry fruit and leaves. You should also prevent your horsefield tortoise from going to the blackberry bush with thorns.
Benefits of Your Horsefield Tortoise Eating Blackberry Fruits
Blackberry seeds have Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids which are good antioxidants.
They are safe to eat when fed in small amounts. It is important to note that the seeds of blackberries contain cyanide.
In small amounts, it is non-poisonous to the health but they become detrimental in large quantities. So as always, moderation and varieties are crucial when feeding your horsefield tortoises.