Are you thinking about getting a pet tortoise? Did you see a cute baby sulcata tortoise at a pet store? Are you thinking that you want a sulcata tortoise? Are you unsure if sulcatas are good beginner pet tortoises?
A sulcata tortoise can be a great beginner pet tortoises. They have simple diets. When they’re adults, they don’t need a babysitter when you go out of town. You don’t have to worry about annual vaccinations or monthly flea/tick medications. They can have bold and friendly personalities.
BUT…
Sulcata tortoises are not for everyone.
Large Size
Sulcata tortoises grow very large. They are the third largest species of tortoise around the world. Because of their large size, sulcatas require a lot of space to roam.
Long Lifespan
Sulcata tortoises live for a LONG time. They can live 70 to over 100 years. You have to consider where will the tortoise go when you die.
Winter Accomodations
They require a winter home. You can bring them inside and set up a room, garage, basement or even an XL tub. Or, you can build an insulated house that’s set up with heat and kept outside.
Destructive
Sulcata tortoises can be very destructive. They can dig large burrows that can disturb the foundation of your house or other buildings on your property.
Territorial
Sulcata tortoises can be territorial over their space. Males will often ram people and other animals that get in their area. A small 5-lb tortoise ramming you is much different than a full-grown 100-lb tortoise ramming you.
When a sulcata rams, it will rise up on its front legs and thrust its body towards you or whatever object it is ramming. Sometimes they will shuffle and push something out of its way by tucking in the head inside the shell and pushing with its legs and shell. If you’re caught off-guard, it isn’t going to feel good, especially if you’re talking about a large, adult sulcata.
