World Turtle Day on May 23rd is the perfect time to celebrate these fascinating creatures. While many appreciate turtles, my true passion lies with tortoises – the land-dwelling relatives of turtles. For clarity, turtles are semi-aquatic, spending significant time in water, whereas tortoises are terrestrial animals. However, for World Turtle Day, we’ll embrace both!
My Tortoise Family: A Personal Experience
I am fortunate to share my life with four pet tortoises from three distinct species. Gallop, our smallest member, is a Russian tortoise, weighing just about a pound. Next, we have Norman and Sheldon, two red-footed tortoises, weighing in at 5 and 7 pounds respectively. Finally, there’s Elliott, a substantial 60-pound African spurred tortoise, also known as a sulcata tortoise.
While it’s been a harmonious experience housing these different species together, it’s important to note that this is not typical and generally not recommended. Housing different tortoise species together, especially a male sulcata with other species, can lead to stress and competition. In Elliott’s case, after noticing he seemed somewhat withdrawn, a consultation with Dr. Cherney suggested loneliness might be a factor. Under careful observation, we gradually introduced the other tortoises. To our delight, they cohabitate peacefully. However, this is an exception, and separate enclosures are usually necessary for different tortoise species.
Outdoor Care for Your Pet Tortoise
Caring for most tortoise species is relatively straightforward, particularly when it comes to outdoor time. When temperatures reach 70°F (around 21°C) or higher during the day, my tortoises are moved outside. They can remain outdoors as long as nighttime temperatures stay above 50°F (10°C). Outdoor access provides essential natural sunlight, crucial for Vitamin D synthesis, and allows them to graze on grass and various plants.
During warmer months, approximately 80% of their diet can be sourced naturally from the backyard. The main challenge with outdoor care? Managing Elliott, the sulcata. Caring for a large tortoise is incredibly demanding and physically strenuous, especially when it comes to securing their environment and managing their size.
Living with a Large Tortoise: Backyard Realities
Having Elliott, my sulcata tortoise, means accepting a certain level of backyard chaos. Patio furniture is frequently rearranged or overturned as Elliott explores. Despite having a fenced yard, Elliott constantly patrols for vulnerabilities. A visible dirt track has formed along the entire fence line from his persistent checks for weak spots.
Tortoises are surprisingly adept escape artists and can climb far better than one might expect. Elliott, with his size and strength, can also simply bulldoze through obstacles, necessitating robust reinforcements to secure his enclosure.
Burrowing is another natural behavior, and Elliott is no exception. He digs large burrows, often abandoning them shortly after starting and excavating new ones elsewhere, frequently targeting areas with fresh, new grass.
Consequently, a pristine, magazine-worthy backyard is not compatible with owning a large tortoise like Elliott. Accepting a more natural, tortoise-modified landscape is part of the experience.
Indoor Pet Tortoise Enclosures and Care
Keeping a pet tortoise indoors requires specific provisions, including supplemental heat, ample space, and specialized lighting. Tortoises have unique environmental needs, and setting up a proper indoor habitat is crucial. While it requires effort and resources, the rewards of keeping these fascinating creatures are well worth it.
During winter, my tortoises have their own dedicated room, equipped with multiple heat lamps and UVB lamps. UVB lighting is essential as it mimics natural sunlight, enabling vitamin D3 synthesis, which is vital for calcium absorption and overall health. They also have a large, custom-built wooden shelter, generously crafted by my father, providing a secure retreat when they desire privacy.
Winter months also bring increased food costs as natural forage like dandelions, plantains, clover, and flowers become unavailable. Last winter, grocery expenses for the tortoises alone averaged around $40 per week.
Their diet consists of leafy greens, zucchini, peppers, cucumbers, and limited amounts of fruit. While the food items are not exotic, the quantity for four tortoises, especially a 60-pound sulcata, adds up. To ensure adequate calcium intake, I supplement their vegetables with a calcium powder twice weekly.
Water is provided for soaking, which is particularly important for hydration. The Russian and red-footed tortoises typically soak themselves, but Elliott requires assistance. He dislikes being bathed in a tub, so I either use the tub or spray him with a hose, which he enjoys. Soaking and spraying are vital to maintain hydration, as tortoises don’t instinctively drink from water dishes as frequently as dogs or cats.
The Unique Joys of Tortoise Ownership
Unlike many reptile species, tortoises can be remarkably social and exhibit distinct personalities, forging bonds with their human caregivers. My tortoises recognize me by sight and voice. Various tortoise species are available as pets, with varying degrees of sociability. Sulcata and red-footed tortoises are known for actively seeking interaction, while Russian tortoises tend to be more reserved.
Elliott, my sulcata, even responds when called and enjoys climbing onto my lap. They are gentle and intelligent animals that can bond with the entire family. African spurred tortoises, in particular, are often called “heirloom pets” due to their exceptional lifespan of over 100 years, often requiring owners to include them in their estate planning.
Smaller tortoise species, with lifespans around 50 years, can be significantly easier to manage than giant species. Red-footed tortoises are known for their pleasant disposition and personable nature. Their diet primarily consists of leafy greens, produce, and commercial tortoise pellets. For housing, a large Rubbermaid tote can suffice indoors, and they also benefit from outdoor enclosures during warmer seasons.
A Brief Note on Turtles
In honor of World Turtle Day, it’s important to briefly mention turtles. Common pet turtle species include red-eared sliders, African sideneck turtles, and painted turtles. Turtles require a large aquarium with ample swimming space.
While aquatic, turtles also need a dry basking platform to exit the water and thermoregulate. Heat lamps and UVB lighting are essential components of their setup. Most turtles require water to eat, which can quickly lead to significant waste accumulation in their tanks.
Therefore, a robust filtration system is necessary to maintain water quality. Although turtles generally do not enjoy handling, they can be trained to accept food from hand.
This article is based on the personal experiences of a reptile enthusiast and pet owner. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian or reptile specialist for species-specific care guidelines and recommendations.
