#Sulcata, #SulcataTortoise, #Tortoise, #Reptiles
Sulcate Tortoise Care, Sulcata Care, Tortoise Care, Spurred Tortoise, African Tortoise, Huge tortoise, large tortoise, big tortoise, giant tortoise, Tortoise Enclosure, Tortoise Housing,
SULCATA: Background, Keeping & Caring Requirements
Caring for, raising and keeping your tortoise heathy is not for everyone. You see these cute little guys in pet stores, swap meets, online and think this would be a nice addition to the family. Do you research, know what you are getting into.
In this video series I will be talking about Large Tortoise, NOT talking about Hatchlings, Small Tortoise, Breeding, Cold Climates. I have been rescuing large Tortoises for over 30 years now and have had these guys in all types of enclosures and housing. This is what I have now.
Background:
- Also Known as “Spurred Tortoise” “African Tortoise”
- Scientific Name: “GEOCHELONE SULCATA”
- 3rd Largest Tortoise the World
- Native: Northern Africa, Southern Edge of the Sahara Desert.
- However, these tortoises can adapt to various living environments
- Unknown how many live in the US
- Can Live 100+ Years
o Males can be up to 200+ lbs / 30-36 Inches
o Females smaller up to 100+ lbs / 24-30 inches
- Not an Idea PET for everyone.
o Because of Long Life / Size / Caring Requirements
BEHAVIOR:
- Like to roam around and are very strong for their size
- Need a large area to freely roam and graze
- Climbers: Care should be taken, they can turn over
- Burrowing: Based on their body temperature, very good it. Seeking Hot / Cold Climates
DESPITE SIZE / BEHAVIOR
- Very Popular, Cute Small Pets
- Outgoing / Friendly / Personality
- Very Curious / Sometimes to their determinant
HEALTH
- Capable of going weeks w/o Water and Food
- No Nature Predators / Except Humans
- Common Health Problems
o Respiratory Issues
o Bone Disease
o Pyramiding
o Parasites
o Injuries
- All Prevented:
o Good Balanced Diet
o Clean Living Conditions
o Access to Water
MISINFORMATION: Sellers/Breeders tell new owners
- They Hibernate: NO, They Don’t
- Stay small in small containers/enclosures: NO, They need room to roam
- Can eat anything vegetarian: NO, They need a balanced diet
- Get too big… take to Zoo:
- TORTOISE RECUES: Most are full
- Male Sulcatas will fight and can injure or kill: They are very solitary creatures, they can be alone
Regular Tasks:
- Daily, Weekly & Monthly
o Clean, Poop, Interaction
o Spa Days
Moving Large Sulcata:
- Large Plastic Tubs
- Garden Cart
- Hand Cart
Keep Records: Journal
- Size, Weight, Diet, Health, Etc.