Tortoises

Today's post is all about tortoises and why they make great pets. Tortoises are hard shelled reptiles that grow large and live for a very long time. The typical size of a tortoise depends on the breed but expect this to be between 6 and 26 inches although they can grow larger than this. You should take this into consideration when purchasing a tortoise as, even though they grow slow, they do grow the most within the first 5 years after birth.

As with all reptiles, tortoises can become stressed, especially after just being introduced to a new home. This should last around a day and they may go off their food within this time period. In order to make the tortoise feel more at home, soak the reptile in warm water.

African Spur Tortoise

Enclosure

If you live in the UK, the chances are you will want to keep your tortoise indoors to avoid the cold weather. Enclosures will need to be considered in this case. A baby tortoise would be happy with 3 square feet of space. Furthermore, consider the type of enclosure you are getting: if it is a glass tank then you may want to place a piece of paper over the lower front of the glass as the tortoise will not realise it is glass and will persist to try to walk through it. Glass that is 'foggy' or frosted works well while still being aesthetically pleasing. An alternative would be a tortoise table which is essentially an open top enclosure that has a hide and a 'run' for the tortoise to get exercise. The walls for this type of enclosure seem low but a baby tortoise will not be able to climb over it.

Yellowfoot Tortoise

Substrate

When it comes to substrate, you must take into consideration the breed of tortoise you have as they all require different humidity and therefore, different substrate. If your tortoise requires mid to high humidity, you can choose substrate such as coconut coir, sphagnum moss, and peat moss. If your tortoise is more used to a desert environment, select a substrate such as dry hay or grass clippings. Shredded paper can also be used if you wish to be economical. Many people use flat paper and while this would be a cheap option for the keeper, it would not stimulate the animal as well as some other substrate. Avoid using sand as there is a risk of the tortoise ingesting it.

Tortoise Table

Lighting and Heating

Like some other reptiles, tortoises require a UV-B source. This provides the tortoise with the tools needed to process and absorb it's food. They also need a spot bulb to give the tortoise heat. Temperatures would depend on the species but a 40w - 60w bulb would be fine for a 3-4 square foot enclosure. Take in mind, you do need to drop the temperature for night time and if the enclosure is within direct sunlight, try to mimic what the temperature would be as the sun goes down. Make sure the temperature does not drop less than 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Enclosure Decorations

'Furniture' for the enclosure can be purchased but unlike lizards and snakes, tortoises do not require tunnels etc, but instead, prefer rocks for them to walk around and climb on. You can also use rocks as a sort of pavement in order to file the tortoises nails down. Also, ensure large and heavy objects are on the floor of the enclosure with the substrate placed around it, to avoid the tortoise injuring itself if it goes digging. Do NOT get fake plants or greenery as the colour will attract the tortoise to the artificial plant as a food source. 

Horsefield Tortoise

Hides

Tortoises require hides in order to feel secure. A humid hide should also be placed in their enclosure as this will keep their shell growth smooth and will prevent 'pyramiding' of their shell. It is recommended that you provide fresh water for the tortoise so it does not dehydrate. Baby tortoises should also be bathed in warm water at least twice a week. 

Diet

A tortoise will eat a mixture of leafy greens that you can purchase from a supermarket. Babies especially require calcium added to their diet to aid the growth of bones and shell. Ensure you do your research into the dietary requirements for your species of tortoise.

A Tortoise Enjoying a Meal

If you find that your tortoise is acting odd, check the conditions of their enclosure, in particular, the humidity and anything that could be stressful for the reptile. Don't forget, they count on you to stay alive.

Adult Sulcata Tortoise