Sulcata (African Spurred) tortoises

Geochelone sulcata


- Sub-Saharan species
- Do not hibernate
- 100% herbivorous diet
- From arid habitats
- Does not tolerate damp or cold
- 3rd largest tortoise in the world
- Grows very quickly
- Requires extensive outdoor and indoor accommodation
- Regular soaking or constant access to water recommended
Geochelone sulcata is the largest continental land tortoise with recorded carapace lengths to 83 cm (over 2.5 feet) and a maximum recorded weight of 105 kg (about 240 lbs.). African Spurred tortoises like (and need) space - lots of it. They are also extremely strong animals, so flimsy accommodation is definitely out of the question. All fixtures and fittings must be firmly bolted down and all fences and walls must be sufficiently resilient to resist the effort which will undoubtedly be directed at overcoming them! Our own Spurred tortoise house consists of a 2m X 2m (6' X 6') indoor grazing area, a secondary 2m X 2m sleeping quarters and a 7m X 4m (20' X 12') outdoor grazing area. This we consider adequate for 2 medium sized adults. Juveniles may be maintained out of doors in protected, secure enclosures whenever the weather permits, or indoors in open-topped pens. Like many tortoises, G. sulcata juveniles do not usually respond well to enclosed vivariums. An attractively landscaped open-topped enclosure provides both security and a stimulating, well ventilated environment.
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