Most people are familiar with the popular pet turtle but fewer are familiar with the sulcata tortoise. This large and somewhat intimidating creature is actually a gentle giant and can make a wonderful pet for the right owner. If you’re considering adding a sulcata tortoise to your home here’s what you need to know about care and maintenance.
The sulcata tortoise is native to the Sahara Desert and as such requires a warm and dry environment. If you live in a cold climate you’ll need to provide your tortoise with an indoor enclosure that can be heated to a temperature of 85-95 degrees Fahrenheit. An outdoor enclosure is also possible as long as it is in a sunny location and protected from the elements.
Your tortoise’s enclosure should be at least 10 square feet for a juvenile and 20-30 square feet for an adult. It should also be equipped with a hide box where your tortoise can retreat to if it feels stressed or needs a time-out. The enclosure should have a substrate of either sand gravel or a mix of the two.
As for diet sulcata tortoises are herbivores and require a diet high in fiber. Leafy greens vegetables and some fruits should make up the bulk of their diet. Commercial tortoise food pellets can also be given but should not make up more than 20% of their diet. It’s important to offer a variety of foods as this will ensure that your tortoise gets all the nutrients it needs.
Water is also important for sulcata tortoises and they should have access to a shallow dish of fresh water at all times. During warm weather you can also mist their enclosure to increase humidity.
Regular vet check-ups are a must for sulcata tortoises as they are susceptible to a number of health problems. These include respiratory infections shell rot and parasites. By working with a reptile-savvy vet you can help keep your tortoise healthy and enjoy many years together.
How often should I feed my sulcata tortoise?
You should feed your sulcata tortoise once a day.
What kind of food do sulcata tortoises eat?
Sulcata tortoises are herbivores and their diet consists of grass hay vegetables and fruit.
How much water does my sulcata tortoise need?
Sulcata tortoises need access to water at all times and it is recommended that you change their water daily.
What kind of habitat does my sulcata tortoise need?
Sulcata tortoises need a habitat that consists of a dry area for basking and a moist area for hiding and digging.
How big will my sulcata tortoise get?
Sulcata tortoises can grow up to 3 feet in length and can weigh up to 200 pounds.
How long do sulcata tortoises live?
Sulcata tortoises can live up to 70 years in captivity.
What temperature does my sulcata tortoise need?
Sulcata tortoises need a temperature between 70-85 degrees Fahrenheit.
What kind of light does my sulcata tortoise need?
Sulcata tortoises need UVB light in order to produce vitamin D3.
How often should I bathe my sulcata tortoise?
Sulcata tortoises should be bathed once a week in warm water.
How often should I trim my sulcata tortoise’s nails?
You should trim your sulcata tortoise’s nails every few weeks.
How often should I clean my sulcata tortoise’s habitat?
You should clean your sulcata tortoise’s habitat every week.
What kind of substrate should I use for my sulcata tortoise’s habitat?
The best substrate to use for a sulcata tortoise’s habitat is a mix of sand and soil.
What kind of furniture should I put in my sulcata tortoise’s habitat?
Sulcata tortoises need a hiding place a basking spot and a place to dig.
Can I keep another animal with my sulcata tortoise?
Sulcata tortoises should not be kept with other animals.
What should I do if my sulcata tortoise becomes sick?
If your sulcata tortoise becomes sick you should take it to the vet.
