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Sulcata Tortoise Care Sheet Archived Comments

I love my turtles I would take more that need a home Crystalmeadows33@ gmail.com if your turtle needs a loving home I will be happy to give them one

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I love my turtles I would take more that need a home Crystalmeadows33@ gmail.com if your turtle needs a loving home I will be happy to give them one I have 4 sulcata tortoises and 3 water turtle there healthy and happy and I do take them to my vet for check ups thank u
Posted by Crystal, Jan 26, 2020 02:21 AM

Hello my name is Crystal I have 4 Sulcata tortoises and 3 Walter turtles they are my babys there names are hooker hoe speedy and climmer and my water turtle is my grand turtle mister and missy I have had them since the was little they fit in the pom of my hand now I have to carry hooker hoe and speedy with both hands cause there getting big but climmer is big as my hand I am trying to find out where to get more food from in Boake cause they are starting to eat alot more I feed them kale vegetables and fruits and grass I give them bananas as a treat they love them I have keep them in the house in the winter and I have them a out side pin during warm days but I want to build the a big play place out side to keep them in any info would help and if any one has tortoises that need a home I would take them and love them my email is Crystalmeadows33@gmail.com I can share pictures
Posted by Crystal, Jan 26, 2020 02:14 AM

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I have an indoor Sulcata that always stops eating for about a week or two when the seasons change ( October or November here in Vegas) then goes back to normal, eating like a little piggy. Now she has stopped again. Is this normal ? Any info would be much appreciated! Jwheels143@icloud.com
Posted by JWheels143, Jan 23, 2020 05:04 PM

“I live in MN and have a Sulcata I need to put up for adoption. We were moving to AZ but have to wait another year. Flash is almost 3 years old and in perfect health. He is getting too big for his enclosure.
Email me bmcartie@aol.com if interested
Posted by bmcartie@aol.com, Jan 9, 2020 11:50 AM


Hello I have two 5 year old tortoise that were raised inside and have been living outside for the last year. During winter of last year I kept inside the garage but they are much larger now an I would like to keep outside. They are not really diggers and most of the time bed down in the dog house. what can I do to keep them warm enough outside? Currently I am bring in at night. Thank you.
Posted by Mel7876, Dec 30, 2019 11:24 AM

I’m in Florida and have an amazing baby sulcata named Frank. I’m in central Florida area and would love to link up and communicate with anyone close that also has tortoises. Text me at (863)327-3549. Also willing to accept a rescue if anyone has one.
Posted by Jeff101st, Dec 26, 2019 08:43 PM

2 yrs old sulcata owner in Florida. Where in Florida?
Posted by Jeff101st, Dec 26, 2019 08:39 PM

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“I am in Sebastopol, I have a 2 year old Sulcata. I keep her in the house during cold days. I have a heated Green House that I also use. I am building a outdoor garden space for my tortoise.
If that person would give up the tortoise. I would be able to take care of it.
Posted by Allamander, Dec 21, 2019 11:47 PM


I have an African sulcata tortoise. I have had her for about eight years. She’s probably about 10 years old. She’s very healthy. I have a large yard area, a concrete area, and she has burrowed quite a large deep hole Under our shed in the backyard. Starting in October, she tends to pace all over the place As if she is stressed out. But she only does it October November December time frames. Can anybody tell me why she does this? She has plenty of food offered to her as well as water. I have large sets of patio furniture that she tends to crawl under, hook onto and drag all over the place. It’s as if she’s not happy with my furniture Decour out back and is rearranging things. She also moves our large garbage cans. When she paces she paces against our stuccoed house. Any suggestions or advice would be so helpful. tammydecker@hotmail.com
Posted by Anonymous, Oct 18, 2019 05:46 PM

“Looking to adopt a tortoise Good loving home will be provided. Tortoise will be living in Jacksonville, Fl. I live here in North Phoenix. Willing to drive fromPhx to get one. It will be hand carried on airplane back to Florida. Please e mail me if you have one that needs to be regimes to animal loving home.
Kyleaz@earthlink.net
Thanking in advanceayhr
Posted by Anonymous, Oct 15, 2019 11:51 PM


Im in texas i want to adopt one my email is jerreldforbes@gmail.com
Posted by Anonymous, Oct 12, 2019 08:35 PM

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To those of you looking to save a tortoise. Tortoise acres in northern California ( go to tortoiseacres.com) takes in tortoise from anywhere in the country, I would go on their website and get in contact with to coordinate. I adopted a sulcata from them and they do a great job. Also to respond to anonymous. with the bad neighbor who has his sulcata in a fish tank, in sestabol ca. I would try buying the tortoise from the guy if u can afford it and then either keep it and take proper care or bring to a rescue like tortoise acres. Good luck!
Posted by Anonymous, Oct 5, 2019 11:18 PM

“Hey, I have 2 sulcata tortoises, one of them walks great all over the place, while the other, looks like is is scooting around on his bottom shell.. it is like it may have short legs, I am not sure.. can someone tell me if this is normal are should I bring it to a vet, they are still lilttle there too shell is about 2”.. what can I do to help it.. Thanks Mel,
melgremillion@yahoo.com
Posted by Anonymous, Sep 29, 2019 12:55 PM


I’m living in a home with a 7-8 (?) yo Sulcata male whose “owner” is never around. I’ve spent the last 2 hours online reading and I’m concerned. I’m in Sebastopol CA. He is kept in an aquaruim he can’t even turn around in and a lamp that gives NO heat. He is never given water. Ever. He was being kept outside but the owner of the house felt it was getting too cold at night, so that’s why he’s in the aquarium. Basically, the loser that “owns” him just thinks he needs vegetables and no more. I just asked the loser’s friend if he gets any exposure to water and was told “don’t worry about him – he won’t be here for too much longer”. (They’re being evicted – they prefer to spend their $ on drugs and gambling). I said I was going to feel his shell and was snapped at. I said, “celery is poisonous to them” and he said “really?” I’m upset. What should I do?
Posted by Anonymous, Sep 28, 2019 08:53 PM

If the tortoise that was found yesterday (SEP 18, 2019 12:13 PM) 2 inches length hasn’t found home I can help, I’m in AZ too. Send me a mail rey.gbr@gmail.com
Posted by Anonymous, Sep 19, 2019 10:23 PM

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I found a baby Sulcata in the middle of the street my kids picked it up and brought it inside it is about 2 inches in length I have 2 large dogs so we put it in the tub and put a little cover in there it can hide under and feed it lettuce we live in AZ does anyone know what I can do with it? We cannot keep it but it would have got ran over by a car and we could not let that happen.
Posted by Anonymous, Sep 18, 2019 12:13 PM

I found this adorable creature in the road this morning. The shell is apparently 2 inches in length. I put it in a ten gallon tank with a small dome lamp, a crawl through log, water dish, thermometer and reptile carpet. I gave it dark lettuce. I purchased a red (night light). I read an article that said it wasn’t necessary, any thoughts? We live in AZ and have a grassy backyard for future home. It is cruising the perimeter of the tank like a speedster.
Posted by Anonymous, Sep 5, 2019 05:36 PM

“If the tortoise in WY is still in need of a warm home, contact me at Fefebelle@gmail.com
We live in TX and have a sulcata yard.
Posted by FefeBelle, Sep 1, 2019 10:36 PM

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Tortoise. found in Wyoming! contact me i am in Billings Mt and can take your tortoise! we have one already with enough room for 2. We have had bumpy for 11 Years she was a rescue as well. I am on face book christy lee king
Posted by becauseigotboredmt, Aug 11, 2019 12:39 PM

Someone abandoned an African Spurred Tortoise in our town park in Wyoming. It needs to be placed in a shelter but none of the areas we have contacted cannot or do not take care of any tortoise. We are willing to drive to anywhere with in 500 miles in order for this creature to have a decent life. The cold here will kill it or the humane society organizations will. We cannot take proper care of this tortoise ourselves. It is approximately 5″wide and 6 1/2″ long.
Posted by Anonymous, Aug 10, 2019 10:42 AM

I too wish that people would stop breeding these animals. It is disgusting abuse as many are being abandoned.
Posted by Anonymous, Jun 17, 2019 02:59 PM

Ranting is all you do like your such a perfect tortoise owner. I just let mine do what she wants (INSTINCT) takes its toll. So by babing the tortoise dont you think your doing more harm than helping desensitizing is what you’re doing just so you know
Posted by Anonymous, May 16, 2019 06:16 AM

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we have a sulcata maybe 10 and he hit the bottom of his jaw which left a mark does this mean it is cracked and how do i determine if it is broke
Posted by Anonymous, May 10, 2019 01:00 AM

“I just wanted to say I’m shocked at the number of people that own a tortoise yet do not know how to care for their tortoise or what to feed & what not to feed them, the information is out there all over the internet, owners need to get reading! You wouldn’t get a cat or dog or even a bird without knowing how to care for them BEFORE you get them or even within the 1st week…So why do it with a tortoise?? Because he’s not complaining?? They are animals & they have rights (ethically speaking) & they feel like every other animal!! PLEASE, look around this is America’s newest throw-away pet! :(( I don’t mean to be rude & I sincerely apologize if I seem that way, PLEASE forgive me!!
Please read on their dietary needs are & care PRIOR to adopting, although hopefully if you can not meet their needs then it’s not the right pet for you, it doesn’t mean you’re not a good pet owner, in fact, it makes you better because you made the right choice for you & the tortoise!
Celery is poisonous to tortoises, & like us, they’ll spend more energy chewing it than they get from it, bananas are very bad for them as well, & to the woman who is bathing your tortoise, please STOP, soap is bad for them, & please stop brushing his skin, please STOP trying to kiss your tortoise you can get extremely sick with SALMONELLA, the tortoise isn’t trying to kiss you he’s trying to bump your face away from his because it’s too close & they don’t like it, although I do agree you have a wonderful bond with your tortoise! 😉
I live in AZ with the optimum temps & 300+ guaranteed days of sunshine every year which is absolutely VITAL they receive & for maybe ONLY during the winter months use a heating/UV lamp when you bring them in & because sunshine (artificial UV light is ok but not all the time) is how they get calcium which is vital to their skin, beak, bones, & shells for growth & hardening! Have people seen what happens to these tortoises when they don’t get the nutrients they need?? It’s horrific, & even if you get them on the right path it can still be too late!! Tortoises have a VERY slow metabolism, so when they aren’t getting the nutrients or proper amount of light they need or they’re eating something poisonous it takes a while to show it by then it can be a slow agonizing death, they can’t tell us what they need, so PLEASE, do the right thing for these animals, & tortoise should make annual visits to the Vet so they can check the tortoise to see if there are any issues, it doesn’t cost PLEASE STOP BREEDING THEM, there are now thousands scattered all over in overcrowded rescues, & dumped mostly in the southwest left to fend for themselves which they cannot, they starve to death & worse as they are attacked by predators & eaten!!
I hope & pray that you all are able to live a long, peaceful, & happy life with your tortoise & I hope & pray many people will want to help these beautiful creatures!
Posted by Anonymous, May 5, 2019 09:59 AM


“My male Sulcata seems to be growing at an increased weight lately….he was born in January of 2017, got him in March of 2017 and he weighed just 0.25 pounds….at 1 year he was about 4.5 pounds….at 2 years he was about 19 pounds, now at 2 years and 4 months he is a whopping 25 pounds already.
Im wondering how his weight compares to other male sulcatas at the same age.
Posted by Anonymous, Apr 22, 2019 11:48 PM


We found a small sulcata tortoise outside, but he doesn’t move a lot except at night to eat and drink. We are going to keep him, but I have a few questions. First of all, what do I do if I can’t find any of these lights? Will our tortoise still be fine without them? And will he eat celery? Celery is the only leafy thing in season right now, and we are feeding him the tips, but I’m worried that he isn’t eating enough because there is still pretty much the same amount of celery as when we put it in two days ago. Please respond!!!!!!!
Posted by Anonymous, Apr 6, 2019 12:38 PM

Hi my name is jody my tortoises name is fred I’ve had him 11yrs plus.i keep him indoors in the winter.when I first got him he weighted 1.02lbs now he is up to 41+ . I think his hormones are kicking in as he has started to get ornary.he loves laying in front of the pellet stove.he has a indoor pen.i cant house him in there anymore he is out growing it.i have a bad back an neck it’s hard for me to lift him.iam looking for a super home for him one with a girlfriend would be awesome.i live in buffalo ny.contact me if intersetted.jodybond1972@gmail.com thanx
Posted by Anonymous, Apr 6, 2019 10:45 AM

I was gave a Sulcata about 2 yrs ago. I live in Florida so she is happy….. I think……. anyhow I am clearing out a large space to build her a forever home… I NEED HELPPPPPP !!!! It will be outside.
Posted by Anonymous, Mar 5, 2019 05:18 PM

Hi I’m a new tortoise mom, need to l ow the best,healthy bedding for my Fattz… ??? Thanks
Posted by Anonymous, Feb 24, 2019 12:24 PM

Hi, I have about 25 eggs and need to get advice on how to incubate them the right way. The last eggs she laid in the ground got eaten by termites. thank you 🙂
Posted by Anonymous, Feb 14, 2019 06:26 AM

I was wondering if I should use a 150 UVB bulb for my sulcata and like I don’t know what I should do for a humid box so please reply back
Posted by DanimaltheAnimal, Jan 13, 2019 08:21 PM

Thank you for the article!
Posted by Anonymous, Dec 31, 2018 05:30 AM

This article is a life saver (litteraly) because my grandma “rescued” 2 baby Sulcatas and she has no idea how to care for them even remotely correct. We live in the low desert and it gets SO cold here at night during the winter, and they dont have a humid nor warm hide, and they are being fed peas and lettuce every day. It’s really sad, and my grandma is a selfish, ignorant person that only cares about them being alive, not happy.
Posted by Anonymous, Dec 8, 2018 03:41 PM

Bandit where do you live? if you live close to me i would adopt it if you havent found your tortoise a home
Posted by las nubes, Aug 28, 2018 12:22 PM

I just had 1 adopt me as he, I call Bandit stole my heart. He just showed up on my back porch, I’m pretty sure a pet. Looking for the owner. I’m taking care of him as I have made him an enclosure. Looking for the Owner, I’m kinda in the country but, have some neighbors. Spoken to 2 rescue centers. Any suggestions?
Posted by Bandit, Aug 28, 2018 12:52 AM

Our Shefu came to me to be boarded while the people tented their house. I gave her back and a few days later they brought him to me sick. They ok’d me to take her to the vet. $750 later we realized she ate the leaves next to the house which still had insecticed on them. She boarded here for about 7 months., then they asked if i wanted her, that was a given. Her shell was in pyramid mode since the poisoning and she is just now starting to show growth. She eats hibiscus flowers and leaves, cactus pads, timothy hay, Mulberry Leaves, grasses, roses and more. She is in a pen since i am a dog trainer, i don’t want to subject her to the dogs. She does graze some nights, she has the top of a concrete bird bath dug into the ground so she can soak. That is rinsed out daily. I just had to cut away a night jasmine so she doesn’t eat that…worried when she is out. she is thriving eating well. To the person KGARZA that wrote in april, she or he should not just lay around. They are active and moving especially when hungry…and for the person that is in Florida…that is fine…heat is ok, with water and soak…them 2 x a week for an hour or two..
Posted by kathiethedogtrainer, Aug 16, 2018 10:10 AM

“Hi,
I would like to move our tortoise to the back yard where there’s more room. Does tortoise feces pose a threat or does it carry harmful bacteria that could transfer to our vegetables or fruits?

I’m not worried about the bacteria touching the outside of the fruits/veg, more worried about the transfer through the roots.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thank you
Posted by Anonymous, Aug 13, 2018 04:34 PM


“Hello to Becky G.
This note is in response to your post of 1/27/18. If you are still needing a home for your sulcata, I would be available to adopt him. I also live in PA, have had a 13 year old sulcata since she was a hatchling. She has her own heated shed, heated reptile pad, basking light and, 36′ x 12′ compound, which is easily enlarged. Please contact me if you are still looking for a home for your boy now or in the future.
Posted by lyngeo@hotmail.com, Aug 12, 2018 09:22 AM


Do I need UVA light or is my UVB 10.0 bulb and regular lightbulb sufficient.
Posted by Anonymous, Aug 7, 2018 08:25 AM

thank you for this info .. Saki is about 8yrs and is about 12″ …
Posted by Anonymous, Jul 20, 2018 03:20 PM

We have a Sulcata male hes around 35lbs. We call him puppy. Hes an indoor and outdoor tort. I carry him like a baby on my chest and talk to him. I will say gimme kisses and he raises his head out and gives me kisses. I give him baths. He loves em i use a wash cloth and wazh his shell and then i say ok ur neck lets get ur neck clean and he puts his head out to one side and i scrub it then say ok puppy other side and he puts his head to the other side. We recently moved in wkth my husbands mom so we can take care of her but havent bought a bed yet so we made one on the floor. We have a lot of pillows and when we woke up the second day our tort had burrowed under our pillows and sleeps under my husbands head. He does it everynight and some days he sleepz on a little bed i made him next to me. I cover him up he burrows in and i pet his head til he goes to sleep. For food we give him bell pepper zucch turnip greens and banana (once in a while its like crack to him lol) he gets its all over his head. He lets me wipe his face. When he hears me cutting something in the kitchen he comes over and stands on my feet and waits for me to feed him. He also only goes potty or poop on one spot in the house (its tile with a potty pad) and then outside of course. He comez when i call him or if i look at him and say something with a smile he starts heading over to me, I brush his shell with a thick brissle brush too it shines him up and he loves it.I wrote this because everyones torts are different. I think we have a unique one as does everyone but hes funny smart loving and a brat sometimes lol. We are going to see if a zoo can take him when we die because we want him taken care of for sure.
Posted by Anonymous, Jun 25, 2018 12:36 PM

I found a sulcata turtle. It is about 5 lbs. so unsure if it’s age. When I first brought him home, he roamed and ate. The last 2 days he seems to not be eating much and stays in the same spot. Thoughts?
Posted by Kgarza, May 21, 2018 07:59 AM

Hello we have a 2 year old Sulcata and have just started putting him in the back yard, with a metal round gate enclosure. We have a in ground pool and are afraid of the pool. would they walk into a pool or do they know the difference in water and ground. Also after spending 5 hours outside with a covered area and water and grass. We put in his normal cage that night but the next day he seemed out of it tired. is it to much or is he to young to go outside the temp was in 80s during the day. walked around. typical Florida weather.Is he to young? He had shelter and water. he seemed like he liked walking around, ate the grass.Any ideas?
Posted by Shelley P., May 20, 2018 12:30 PM

Hi! I love turtles and tortoises. I’ve had a tortoise before but it was not a Sulcata. I would like to get ideas on how to keep a baby Sulcata safe and healthy indoors. What is best and easy to create their environment? Please help. Thank you!
Posted by Anonymous, Apr 27, 2018 01:31 PM

We have several kinds of torts and love them dearly. They live in and out. My dogs get along well with them… please know what your doing when you get one. We are leaving instructions in our wills about their care after our demise….yes… they will out live us and maybe even another generation if taken care of.
Posted by Anonymous, Apr 10, 2018 01:18 PM

This helps alot im getting a new baby tortis like this and i needed to learn how to take care of them so this helps sooo much thx man for helping
Posted by Anonymous, Feb 13, 2018 11:54 PM

Hello this is for Becky G. My name is Lindsey and my family and I would love to adopt your tortoise. I already own several tortoises one of which is a 4 yr olds sulcata. I live in Ga and have plenty of yard to house the sulcata outside as well as several large indoor inclosers to keep her safe until she’s ready for the yard. Could you tell me a little more about him/ her, or if you have some I’d like to see pics.
Posted by Anonymous, Jan 29, 2018 02:35 PM

Please help me rescuer of sulaota tottios Mine is three very smart and well behaved. I am 77 with a bad heart afraid of what will happen to him when ai go. I live in PA so hes inside all the time, will you would help. He is three. I didn’t research this and now very worried about him. Becky G.
Posted by Rebecca G., Jan 27, 2018 07:36 AM

Does anyone know if an African Spurred Tortoise can eat egg plant?
Posted by Lalania, Jan 18, 2018 08:17 PM

Thanks
Posted by Anonymous, Dec 30, 2017 10:36 AM

Is there a method or system to the question and answer process here?? Or do you just have to read all of the posts and hope you eventually find one. ?????
Posted by Anonymous, Dec 28, 2017 07:54 AM

I would like to adopt or rescue tortoises. Mainly terrestrial varieties. I am set up well and have knowledge and a dedication for rescue efforts. I live in SC and would love to hear from anyone who knows of any in need.
Posted by Anonymous, Dec 26, 2017 10:42 PM

We rescued our Sulcata. You never have to buy them there are so many that need homes. Folks think it’s cool at first and cute to have one and then realize that they will outlive them. One just died that was 145 years old! Only feed grasses and greens..never dog or “tortoise foods”
Posted by Anonymous, Dec 4, 2017 12:13 PM

I am thinking about getting one.
Posted by Anonymous, Nov 12, 2017 06:43 PM

I am thinking about getting one.
Posted by Anonymous, Nov 12, 2017 06:36 PM

hello, i live in a hot country and want to know what is the highest temperature a Sulcata tortoise can withstand? the temperature in my country can reach up to 43C.
Posted by Anonymous, Nov 7, 2017 04:57 PM

From Malaysia, what is the best type of vegie for my baby sulcata that can grow here?(Malaysia)
Posted by Anonymous, Oct 30, 2017 11:13 PM

We had a huge tortoise go through our yard yesterday and it looked like a sulcata. We live in central Florida. I don’t know much about odtoises but we are teying to identify the one that came into our yard. Can I send a picture so someone can help us identify this huge tortoise.
Posted by Anonymous, Oct 17, 2017 01:40 PM

Do not feed a tortoise dog food they can get these lumps on there or there shell will shrink
Posted by Anonymous, Sep 21, 2017 01:39 PM

NEVER feed a sulcata tortoise dog or cat food or any diet that is high in protein. They will die of kidney disease if they are fed a diet high in protein. Even alfalfa hay is too high in protein. Feed them Timothy hay or orchard grass, these have the proper nutrients for a land tortoise. I feed my tortoises lots of dandelion leaves–it’s high in calcium which they need for shell integrity.
Posted by Teri T, Sep 4, 2017 10:34 AM

My sulfate poops then a grey puddle comes out then goes back in the rectum.is this normal.
Posted by Dave K., Jul 2, 2017 06:02 PM

My tortious poops then a grey puddle comes out then it goes back in his rectum.is that normal.
Posted by Dave K., Jul 2, 2017 06:00 PM

endagered status is usually based on their presence in wildlife i believe… for example many indian freshwater turtles are considered vulnerable but i know a person who has 30 of them in a 50 feet pond.
Posted by Anonymous, May 14, 2017 01:32 PM

“tortoises are omnivorous, they eat an occasional dead bug or what ever. You wish they were vegetarian.
They didn’t survive for 200 million years by being strictly vegetarian.
Posted by Anonymous, Apr 26, 2017 04:53 PM


I like the way the site is laid out but it would be helpful if you put the health care problems or the reason why Sulcata tortoises are deemed Vulnerable on the endangered animal list.
Posted by Anonymous, Mar 30, 2017 10:18 AM

I want to grow sunflowers in my back yard. My tortoises are free to go where every they want. With access to sunflower does anyone think this is a bad idea? Are they toxic for my tortoises?
Posted by Anonymous, Mar 30, 2017 05:06 AM

How often should I mist my baby sulcatas hide and can I give her bell peppers and fruit
Posted by Anonymous, Feb 16, 2017 06:08 AM

To the person who said to feed your tortoise dog food to make it grow faster…….. NEVER EVER feed them dog or cat food. Dogs and cats need meat in their diets and tortoises do not. They are vegetarians and have no need for the meat proteins. I have only had my tortoise for a few years, but I know that much. I am constantly learning new things to help him to live a fuller life.
Posted by Anonymous, Dec 5, 2016 03:01 PM

Feed them dog food they will grow faster
Posted by Anonymous, Nov 27, 2016 06:13 AM

My dad does not believe that my Sulcata tortoise should be eating the grass in our back yard, it is not the best grass, but there is other stuff to eat as well. He demands that I feed her lettuce almost every day, and at least 3 times a week. From what I have read in multiple sites, and from previous research, she should be eating more of the grass and other leaves around our yard, and eating much less lettuce, only as an occasional treat. Who in this case is right?
Posted by Anonymous, Nov 25, 2016 03:30 PM

I got our trutle couple months ago. Lately when i pick him up to soak him he will pee all over spray clear white fluid. Is this normal? Whats causing this hes a baby
Posted by Anonymous, Nov 20, 2016 09:53 PM

Hello I have a question, I purchased 2 baby sulcatas and one of them stays turned over all he time and cannot turn back over I have to turn it back over and I have to check it several times a day what could be causing this ?
Posted by Anonymous, Oct 10, 2016 12:49 PM

We feed our goats peanut hay (the dried out leaves and stems from peanut plant) and I was wondering if anyone knows if you can feed it to sulcata tortoises?
Posted by Anonymous, Oct 1, 2016 02:47 PM

Obvious injuries you listed… Obvious reasons to seek medical attention… You don’t deserve a pet if you can’t use a phone…I hope that innocent tortoise lived, that’s so sad. Any vet would’ve told you to get some help for your pet, although you absolutely knew that to begin with.
Posted by Anonymous, Sep 29, 2016 11:42 AM

I LOVE this site. It shows really shows everything except for the length & age of the tortoise. I’d like to see that some where please.
Posted by Anonymous, Sep 7, 2016 05:49 PM

We found a sulcata and, not yet locating the owner, are adopting it. Is there any way to tell its age given that there is so much variance in size based on diet and other factors? I noticed that your excellent article mentioned not handling them but this little one seems to like attention, especially having its front legged stroked.
Posted by Anonymous, Aug 30, 2016 11:48 PM

I got one, and mine is one year old, and its bigger then the 4 year old at pet stores. I got mine 2 weeks after hatch and her egg tooth fell off. I been doing a week of lettuce not iceberg. Then a week of rep-cal tortoise food every now and then a tomato. I put lotion on shell, and she growing fast with this diet. Also they love grass. just giving ideas to people who want them to look and be super healthy grow faster, and which it slow when they r older, I know i got one that 19 years old we can barley caring him where he needs to go lol. I got all types of turtles. Anyone needs advise on water or land turtles post I will answer….
Posted by Anonymous, Aug 24, 2016 12:04 PM

“I just got one baby Sulcata Tortoise for my 7 years son and I have a one year old daughter is Sulcata Tortoise good to have around the kids.
Because I heard Land turtles should not be in homes that have dogs (possible predators of turtles). Keep in mind that infants and some children are also not ideal companions for turtles. Many experts recommend that only children over 12 years old have contact with land turtles. Most small turtles are carriers of salmonella, an infection that can possibly be fatal to infants, the elderly, and the medically fragile. Even if your turtle is not in the “small turtle” category, there is still a risk of the turtle passing on infections to children.
Posted by Anonymous, Aug 13, 2016 12:45 AM


I have had my Sulcata for 12 years. I believe he is actually about 15 or 16. He eats the proper Sulcata diet: high fiber, no sugar, etc. He is quite healthy and appears to be “happy.” He lives in a very large indoor enclosure but spends a great deal of time outdoors during warm weather (we live in Northeastern US). My concern is that he weighs only 24 pounds. He eats well and has an excellent appetite. Should I be concerned about his small size?
Posted by Anonymous, Aug 2, 2016 07:04 PM

“@kjsmommy1020 tortoises of separate species should only be housed with their own kind. Sulcatas are known to get aggressive and territorial with age, especially the males. I would not recommend it!!
———————————————————————–
SULCATAS DO NOT HIBERNATE!!! Ever!!!

Also, sulcatas can vary in size greatly, regardless of age. It’s not necessarily bad, it just depends on what you feed them. HIGH FIBER!!! NO SUGAR AND NO PROTEIN!!!! Think of them as a kind of cow. If you tortoise has lumps or raised pyramids on his shell, he may have metabolic bone disease, most often caused by poor inadequate diet!!!

There’s tons of info out there guys!!! Just make an effort to actually find what you need!!
Posted by Anonymous, May 27, 2016 10:27 AM


Take your sulcata to the vet if he is obviously in poor health!! Don’t waste time posting online to get some random guesses!!! Geez the ignorance and stupidity!! If you had blisters on your body, your eye was swollen, and there’s blood in your fingernails …. Would you not rush to a doctor??? Same concept people!!! Pets are not accessories to be replaced at your whim!! Study and take care of them as best as you can!!!
Posted by Anonymous, May 27, 2016 10:15 AM

Does anyone answer these questions??
Posted by Anonymous, May 10, 2016 08:41 PM

HELP!!! My baby sulcaca has some spots on his body that look like blisters but aren’t bubbled out and is very weak also one of his eyes is closed shut. Lastly his front leg has a bump on the bottom of his foot and 2 of his nails look like they have blood filled in them can you please help me.
Posted by Anonymous, Apr 28, 2016 09:44 PM

HELP!!! My baby sulcaca has some spots on his body that look like blisters but aren’t bubbled out and is very weak also one of his eyes is closed shut. Lastly his front leg has a bump on the bottom of his foot and 2 of his nails look like they have blood filled in them can you please help me.
Posted by Anonymous, Apr 28, 2016 09:40 PM

“I just buy sulcatas tortoises 2 pcs age 3-4 weeks, its just baby Could you please advice me how to care and what type of food I have to give its very tiny and I don’t know how to care
I appreciate if you can email me bhavik47@gmail.com
Posted by Anonymous, Apr 22, 2016 03:30 AM


My tortoise is around five years old and is only 5 inches long, is that big or small for that age? Also, on each of the shapes on his shell there is a lump. We bought him like that, could he be a different type of tortoise or is there something wrong with him? Lastly, we keep him inside for half of the year and outside for the other because me and my family live in Connecticut. During the winter while he is inside he seems to hibernate. Is that good or bad? Thank you.
Posted by Anonymous, Apr 18, 2016 04:20 PM

I have had mine for about 20 years. he does not like other tortoise’s. He with go at them and ram them hard. He is about 80 pounds now. He is fine with all other animals. Dogs can be a problem though. They can attack a tortoise. He has a very large outdoor enclosure to himself. Remember that they are very powerful animals. If they can see through the enclosure they will go through it. They also dig very large burrows. Many feet long which could end up on the other side of the enclosure. In colder climates they must be kept indoors during the winter months. Hope this helps.
Posted by Anonymous, Mar 23, 2016 09:36 AM

my 1 year old Sulcata jaw clicks when eating is this normal?
Posted by Anonymous, Mar 9, 2016 05:10 PM

I currently own 3 yr old male russian desert tortoise, a friend has an older male sulcuta and wants to give him to me.. Would they be ok sharing a 6 ft × 4 ft enclosure if each had its own burrow?
Posted by kjsmommy1020, Mar 8, 2016 02:57 PM

The people at the store painted the baby sulcatas any ideas why?
Posted by Anonymous, Mar 6, 2016 08:54 AM

I have aquatic turtles and just picked up a baby sulcata two days ago. Interesting lil fellows this lil guy is. Curious and he can travel a good distance in a short time. I thought these guys slow.. I was wrong
Posted by Anonymous, Feb 29, 2016 08:33 AM

let me rephrase that, are earthworms good for the Sulcata tortoises to eat?
Posted by Anonymous, Feb 19, 2016 11:31 AM

what about earthworms?
Posted by Anonymous, Feb 19, 2016 11:29 AM

“Sulcata tortoises for sale ( $450 each)

A pair sulcata tortoises available for sale . very healthy and home raised. Female is 100% proven breeder and lays between 3-5 times a year. They are home raised and both a bred. contact us for more details. Email: esther_egli1988@hotmail.com
Posted by Anonymous, Jan 22, 2016 09:33 AM


For those asking if Sulcatas can be kept with other animals, mine is about 10, and hes been around dogs, cats, chickens, and ducks. There haven’t been any problems with this, the other animals leave him alone and he leaves them alone. I guess it would all depends on the personality of the animals you plan to introduce them to.
Posted by Anonymous, Jan 18, 2016 01:43 PM

So I am about to get a sulcata tortoise , do you guys know what other animals they can be kept with for example: peafowls (peacocks), dog or sheep ?
Posted by Anonymous, Jan 16, 2016 07:19 PM

So I am about to get a sulcata tortoise , do you guys know what other animals they can be kept with for example: peafowls (peacocks), dog or sheep ?
Posted by Anonymous, Jan 16, 2016 07:06 PM

I just bought a 6 month old and he has a red spot on his shell. Any ideas on what could have caused this?
Posted by Anonymous, Jan 14, 2016 09:48 PM

Hey guys! Gendering is pretty easy after a year or so. The underneath of their shell tells it all! If it is concave (curved up) they are male. Flat or convex (pointed down) they are female.
Posted by Anonymous, Jan 8, 2016 10:09 PM

a sulcata can’t have spinach…
Posted by Anonymous, Dec 27, 2015 01:56 AM

“I just moved our tortoise to a larger tank he lives in the house … He was eating like a horse prior to the new tank and now seems slower and not interested in food as much! One end of the tank is lighted and heated the other isn’t (yet?)
I was concerned he wasn’t warn enough in the larger tank but he seems to be going to the cooler end and burying himself soooo if he wanted more hear wouldn’t he go to the other end of the tank?
Do I NEED ANOTHER LIGHT SYSTEM FOR THE OTHER END OF THE TANK?
Posted by Lynore O., Dec 14, 2015 12:22 PM


“Make sure they are warm enough, I have a heater in my Henry’s “”tent”” in the living room.Also they must have an uva uvb light if they are inside in colder temps.

He likes fleece blankes, Will wander the house and end up trying to sleep with my pot bellied pig! He climbs into the dogs beds too.

Goes in and out the dog door and up and down steps.
Eats mustard leaves, collard greens, kale, good greens, peppers, grass, dandilions, blackberrie leaves, etc. Begs for more too! He is 2 1/2 Weighs over 30 pounds. Nice flat carapace. Comes when called, follows me all over the house and if my feet are still, he will lay on them. All my animals are fine with him.

NO, NO, NO, fruit. It ruins the balance of their natural flora in their gut, then they cannot digest food correctly. Can make them very sick. These are from the desert where there is little to no fruit!

To rehab do all the things this site says as far as needs. Soak them in warm water. I would not use any oil or soap. Stick to what nature would do. Carolina Pet Supply has a wonderful supplement called TNT. Total Nutrition for torts and turts.

Yes they can feel things on their carapace. Do not poke a hole for a chain!

I had two adults in my front yard for years we rehabbed and placed. They made huge holes and dens. Had a half acre just for themselves!
They are sentient animals, treat them with respect and love them!!!
Posted by Debilyn, Dec 11, 2015 10:13 AM


i have baby sulcata tortoise, he didnt eat any food/salad from last 3 days. also never open his eyes and no movement.
Posted by Anonymous, Nov 18, 2015 06:46 PM

We just got a 20 year old Sulcata. His shell looks terrible. Even kind of collapse in the back. Over than that he looks extremely dried up and scaly. Is there an oil or something to armor all (so to speak) there shell?
Posted by Dennis, Nov 14, 2015 06:05 PM

5% SEVIN DUST IN THE YARD? YES/NO
Posted by Anonymous, Nov 3, 2015 11:44 AM

Spinach isn’t good for them regularly
Posted by Anonymous, Oct 10, 2015 09:46 PM

Can you keep a sulcata outside with dogs?
Posted by Anonymous, Oct 9, 2015 03:43 PM