Pet Critique

Hi there, pet lovers! 🐢

Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of Sulcata Tortoises, also known as African Spurred Tortoises. These colossal yet charming reptiles are the third-largest tortoise species in the world, often reaching up to 100 pounds or more as adults. However, their size and unique care requirements make them quite different from your average pet. Let’s see how these gentle giants measure up!

Ease of Handling: 4/5

While they’re not “cuddly” pets, Sulcata Tortoises are surprisingly easy to handle when necessary—provided you can manage their hefty size. Adults can weigh between 70–100 pounds (sometimes more), so you’ll need strength to lift and move them. Fortunately, their calm and docile nature makes handling straightforward once you get them off the ground.

Unlike many other reptiles, Sulcatas rarely bite, scratch, or behave aggressively. Even their large, powerful beaks are more suited to munching grass than nipping hands. That said, you’ll want to handle them carefully, as improper technique (such as gripping their legs) can lead to accidental injuries for both you and the tortoise.

One quirk to watch out for is their ability to release an astonishing amount of water when stressed, particularly during transport. While this isn’t harmful, it’s something to prepare for. Overall, these tortoises are gentle giants, but their size and weight require extra consideration.

Care and Maintenance: 3/5

Sulcatas are relatively straightforward to care for but come with significant space and resource requirements. Adult Sulcatas thrive in outdoor environments where they can roam and graze freely, provided the temperature is suitable. Since they originate from arid, desert-like regions, they’re accustomed to hot climates but need shelter from extreme heat or cold.

Outdoor enclosures must be secure to prevent escape, as these tortoises are incredible diggers. Their natural burrowing instincts can lead them to dig under fences or walls, so sturdy, well-anchored barriers are essential.

Diet is another critical factor. Sulcatas are primarily herbivores, with grass and hay forming the bulk of their diet. They’ll happily graze on lawn grass if given the opportunity and should also be supplemented with calcium-rich greens like collard greens and mustard greens. However, avoid foods like spinach or broccoli that can interfere with calcium absorption.

For those keeping Sulcatas indoors (due to weather or space limitations), the challenge increases. Indoor enclosures need to be enormous—think custom-built spaces—and equipped with heat and UVB lighting to replicate natural sunlight. A dedicated owner can manage these needs, but the sheer scale of care can be overwhelming for newcomers.

Health and Durability: 5/5

These tortoises are some of the hardiest reptiles you can find. With proper care, they can live 70 years or more, making them a lifetime commitment. They’re resilient to common health issues, provided their basic needs are met, including a proper diet, clean water, and a stable environment.

That said, many rescue Sulcatas come from neglectful or improper conditions, leading to shell deformities or malnutrition. Fortunately, these reptiles are tough and often bounce back with appropriate care. They are unlikely to get sick easily, but issues like pyramiding (shell deformities due to poor diet or hydration) can arise if their care isn’t consistent.

If you adopt a Sulcata, regular veterinary checkups and access to calcium and UVB are crucial for long-term health. With a bit of diligence, these tortoises can thrive and bring joy for decades.

Availability: 3/5

Thanks to their popularity in the pet trade, Sulcata Tortoises are relatively easy to find, especially if you’re looking to adopt or rescue. Many people purchase Sulcatas as tiny hatchlings, unaware of their eventual size and needs, leading to a high number of abandoned adults in need of homes.

We strongly encourage adopting a rescue Sulcata rather than buying a baby. Not only does this give a deserving tortoise a second chance, but it also ensures you’re better prepared for the responsibilities of caring for an adult tortoise. Rescue organizations and reptile forums are great places to start your search.

However, you’re unlikely to find Sulcatas in typical pet stores, which may make adoption slightly less convenient than purchasing other reptiles.

Initial Cost: 2/5

While adopting a rescue Sulcata is often inexpensive or even free, the real costs come from their setup and ongoing care. Outdoor enclosures need to be large, secure, and weatherproof, while indoor setups require custom-built spaces with heating, UVB lighting, and a substrate that accommodates digging.

Even their diet, though primarily based on grass and hay, can add up over time due to the volume they consume. Supplementing their food with leafy greens, vegetables, and occasional treats can also increase costs.

In short, owning a Sulcata Tortoise is not a small investment. If you’re considering adopting one, ensure you’re prepared for these financial and spatial commitments.

Final Thoughts: 3.4/5

These incredible tortoises are perfect for dedicated owners who have the space, time, and resources to meet their needs. Their gentle nature, fascinating behaviors, and impressive size make them a joy to care for, but their long lifespans and significant requirements mean they’re not for everyone.

If you’re looking for a unique, hardy pet and are ready to commit for the long haul, a rescue Sulcata Tortoise might be the perfect choice for you. Remember, adopting a rescue not only gives a tortoise a second chance but also helps reduce the number of these amazing animals in need of homes.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Have you owned or cared for a Sulcata Tortoise? We’d love to hear your experiences! 🐢