Sulcata Tortoise Info

Sulcata Tortoise, also known as the African Spur Thigh Tortoise

The African spurred tortoise (Geochelone sulcata), also called the African spur thigh tortoise or the sulcata tortoise, is a species of tortoise which inhabits the southern edge of the Sahara desert, in northern Africa. It is the third largest species of tortoise in the world and the largest species of mainland tortoise (not found on an island). Specimens easily reaching 24-30 inches (60-75 cm) in carapace length and 80-110 pounds (36-50 kg).

Main Necessities For Your New Tortoise

Heat Light and heating pad for warmth, these tortoise can handle temperatures of 85 degrees to 105 degrees in one area of their enclosure and at night temperatures can drop as low as the 70's.

Ultra Violet Light-this light reverses or prevents a common disease called metabolic bone disease.

Food List

Calcium and Vitamin supplements, sprinkled upon their food

Kale, Endive, Mustard greens, Collard greens, Red leaf lettuce, Green leaf lettuce, Escarole, Turnip Greens, Dandelions-make sure they were not fertilized on the lawn, Mixed veggies-thawed

Spring Mix-which is prebagged

Watermelon, Kiwi, Strawberries, Mango, Bananas, Papaya, Cantaloupe, Honey Dew, Grapes

NO CITRUS- Oranges, Lemons, Limes

Squash, Yellow peppers, Red peppers, Cactus Leaves

Timothy Hay, Tortoise pellets-mixed with their food

Place tortoise in lukewarm water for 20-30 mins. About twice a week, they will drink that water and defecate.