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As hatchlings, Sulcata tortoises are often between 1.5 and 2 inches in upper shell length — still very small. However, within just a year or two, they can very quickly grow to 6 to 10 inches. For people who are thinking about a Sulcata tortoise as a pet, consideration of future size is vital.
How big is a 1 year old sulcata tortoise?
A baby Sulcata is born at around two inches in size. Their growth rate will vary greatly based on their diet, enclosure, and environment. Healthy tortoises will reach seven inches at one year old and gain five to ten pounds each year. They are very slow growers and won’t reach their adult size until 15 to 20 years old.
How long does it take a sulcata tortoise to grow?
Sulcata tortoises grow rapidly for the first five to 10 years, and then their growth slows with age.
How big can a sulcata tortoise grow?
Sulcata tortoises are big, slow, and tough survivalists. Adults average 18 inches in shell length and 70 to 100 pounds in weight, but specimens reaching two to three feet in length and upwards of 150 pounds aren’t uncommon. Sulcatas dig burrows in the ground where they take shelter from their harsh, hot, arid habitat.
How old is a 10 inch sulcata tortoise?
Sulcata Tortoise Size and Lifespan Hatchling Sulcata tortoises will be about 1 ½ to two inches in shell length. The growth rate is more diverse than other tortoises; 10-inch tortoises could be three years old or 10 years old.
Are male or female sulcata tortoises bigger?
Male sulcata tortoises usually achieve bigger adult sizes than the females. The males routinely weigh a minimum of 120 pounds, while the females generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds.
Do tortoises get lonely?
No, they don’t! Unlike humans and other social animals, tortoises don’t necessarily feel the need for any companionship, so they don’t get lonely. In the wild, they prefer living solitary lives and spend most of their time alone. Many tortoise owners like to believe that their pet tortoises have human-like needs.
Do tortoises like being touched?
Tortoises Definitely Love Being Touched Matt Evans of the Smithsonian National Zoo Reptile Discovery Center says, “Tortoises enjoy tactile sensations, rubbing, scratching, that kind of thing.
Do sulcata tortoises hiss?
Banging and butting is generally normal for tortoises, but squeaking and whistling should always be checked by a vet in case it’s caused by a respiratory infection. Panting and hissing can also be normal for a tortoise, as it’s a precursor to eating.
Do sulcata tortoises bite?
So do tortoises bite? Yes, tortoises do bite. While they are typically very docile and peaceful, they are able to use the strength of their beaks to bite each other, other pets and sometimes humans for a variety of reasons.
How old do sulcata tortoises get?
Sulcata tortoises in captivity can live an upwards of 70 years.
Do sulcata tortoises hibernate?
In captivity, sulcatas must be provided with a hot and dry environment year round. Unlike California desert tortoises, sulcatas do not hibernate. Although they can tolerate some surprisingly low temperatures, they cannot be allowed to get both chilled and wet, or kept outdoors in chill, damp weather.
How much does a full grown sulcata tortoise cost?
It has an engaging nature, is attractive and sells for anywhere between $50 and $1,000. These traits make it one of the most commonly purchased pet tortoises in North America.
How often do you feed a sulcata tortoise?
The Sulcata is the largest of the African mainland tortoise, with specimens easily reaching 24-30 inches (60-75 cm) in carapace length and 80-110 pounds (36-50 kg). Food and Feeding: Adults should be fed three times per week minimum, and hatchlings fed daily. For every feeding, dust food with a calcium supplement.
Do sulcata tortoises need friends?
Do tortoises need friends? No, tortoises do not need friends. Some pet tortoises may enjoy having a mate, while others may not like it at all. Tortoises are naturally solitary animals.
How much space does a sulcata tortoise need?
Sulcata tortoises will do best if kept outdoors in temperatures that do not fall below 50°F. If being kept indoors, an adult Sulcata tortoise will need at least a space of 80 ft².
Can two male sulcata tortoises live together?
Can Two Male Tortoises Live Together? Male tortoises shouldn’t be kept together, as they will eventually become aggressive towards each other. No matter what species they are, how docile they may seem when alone, or whether or not they’re related, male tortoises should be kept apart.
What can I feed my sulcata tortoise?
Grasses and hay: Sulcata tortoises NEED access to grasses and hay on which to graze. This is the bulk of their diet (90%) and should be from pesticide- and herbicide-free grass and grass cuttings, cheat grass, clover, edible flowers (nasturtium, geraniums, hibiscus, rose petals) and shrubs.
How do I know if my sulcata tortoise is healthy?
A healthy tortoise will have signs of a growth ring, which appears as a palish band in between the bony plates (scutes) and above the lower, marginal scutes. When holding a tortoise it should feel solid rather than light. The eyes of the tortoise should be clear and bright and there should be no sign of discharge.
Do sulcata tortoises recognize their owners?
Yes, both tortoises and turtles can learn to recognize their caretakers. This does take time, but turtles and tortoises are very smart. They will learn your scent, sounds, and behaviors. They will come to associate you with food and safety.
How do you tell if a tortoise is stressed?
Lethargy, lack of appetite, and hiding a lot are common symptoms. Illnesses, injuries, environmental changes, consistent noises, being moved or handled, and bullied are potential reasons for stress.
Can sulcata and desert tortoise live?
We recommend that you do not share the yard with our desert tortoise or any other species. If the area is not large enough, expect the sulcata to ram walls and knock over items, small trees and shrubs.
