Baby African Sulcata Tortoises

Baby Sulcata Tortoises are fairly easy to care for. Adults reach up to 24" or 120lbs and have they have a life span from 55-110 years. African Sulcata or African Spurred tortoises come from the dry arid desert of Africa and primarily grazes on grasses and dry weeds.  In captivity, they enjoy an easy diet of spring mix, dandelion greens, and Mazuri tortoise chow, dusted with calcium.  A baby Sulcata tortoise is easy to care for, and besides getting large, are fantastic pet tortoises.

These guys have been eating a diet of leafy greens, with the occasional lettuce varieties.

The Sulcata Tortoise, scientifically known as Geochelone sulcata, is one of the largest and most iconic terrestrial tortoise species in the world. These remarkable reptiles are often referred to as the African Spur Thigh Tortoise due to the distinctive spurs on their hind limbs. They are renowned for their impressive size, longevity, and unique physical characteristics.

1. Size and Appearance: Sulcata Tortoises are among the largest tortoise species, with adults commonly reaching lengths of 24 to 30 inches (61 to 76 cm) and weighing anywhere from 100 to 200 pounds (45 to 91 kg) or even more. Their impressive size is coupled with a distinctive appearance, featuring a high, domed carapace (shell) that can vary in color from light brown to dark tan. This shell is marked with distinctive, large scales and spurs on the hind legs, which are more pronounced in males.

2. Habitat: Native to the arid and semi-arid regions of sub-Saharan Africa, Sulcata Tortoises are well adapted to hot and dry environments. They are often found in savannas, grasslands, and scrublands, where they can endure extreme temperatures and limited water sources.

3. Behavior: These tortoises are known for their slow and deliberate movement, and they are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a diet of various plant materials, including grasses, leaves, and other vegetation. Sulcatas are crepuscular, which means they are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, avoiding the midday heat.

4. Lifespan: Sulcata Tortoises are exceptionally long-lived creatures, with some individuals reaching well over a century in age when kept in captivity. Their longevity requires a long-term commitment from those who choose to care for them.

5. Care and Habitat: Providing proper care for Sulcata Tortoises is essential. They require a spacious outdoor enclosure with access to sunlight, as well as a secure indoor area to protect them from cold or inclement weather. The enclosure should have a substrate suitable for digging and burrowing, and it is essential to ensure their diet is well-balanced and their water source is reliable

6. Conservation Status: The Sulcata Tortoise is listed as a species of "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, habitat loss and illegal trade continue to pose threats to their wild populations, making responsible and ethical ownership even more important.