Species Overview

Common name: Tropical/Savanna Tortoises (Mixed Species)
Example species: African Spurred/Sulcata Tortoise (Centrochelys sulcata), Leopard Tortoise (Stigmochelys pardalis), Red-footed Tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonarius)
Origin: African grasslands, savannas, and tropical forests of sub-Saharan Africa and South America (Red-footed).
Lifespan: 50–100+ years (depending on species and care)

Adult size:

  • Sulcata Tortoise: 60–80 cm (24–32 in), 40–60 kg

  • Leopard Tortoise: 30–45 cm (12–18 in), 13–20 kg

  • Red-footed Tortoise: 30–40 cm (12–16 in), 10–20 kg
    Temperament: Generally calm but strong and determined; can be curious and food-motivated.
    Activity: Diurnal (active during the day)

Housing and Enclosure Setup

Enclosure Size

  • Tortoises require large, spacious enclosures to roam and thermoregulate.

  • Juveniles: Minimum 4ft x 2ft vivarium or indoor pen.

  • Adults: Custom-built or shed-based enclosure to provide ample space, secure walls and stable temperatures.

  • Enclosures must allow for zoned heating, UVB lighting, and dry and humid microclimates.

  • Height should accommodate full-sized lighting and heating fixtures safely.

Substrate

  • Best options: Soil and play sand mix, coconut coir, or topsoil for moisture retention.

  • Keep substrate slightly damp for humidity-loving species (e.g., Red-footed), drier for Leopard and Sulcata tortoises.

  • Avoid dusty or sharp substrates like pure sand or wood shavings.

Furnishings & Enrichment

  • Provide hide boxes, logs, flat rocks, and low shelters for security and enrichment.

  • Supply shallow water trays for soaking — large enough for the tortoise to sit in but shallow enough to prevent drowning.

  • Add edible plants, safe weeds, or artificial foliage for visual barriers and enrichment.

Temperature, Lighting & Humidity

Temperature Gradient

  • Basking area: 32–35°C

  • Ambient daytime: 29–35°C depending on species

  • Nighttime drop: 20–24°C (68–75°F)

  • Always control heating with a thermostat and verify using digital thermometers at multiple points.

Lighting

  • Provide high-output UVB (10–12%) for healthy shell and bone development.

  • Use full-spectrum lighting to mimic natural sunlight for 12–14 hours daily.

  • Position UVB tubes to cover at least two-thirds of the enclosure length.

Humidity

  • Sulcata & Leopard: 40–60%

  • Red-footed: 70–85%

  • Maintain humidity using moist substrate, misting, or humid hides for young tortoises.

  • Ensure good airflow to prevent mold or respiratory issues.

Diet & Feeding

Diet

  • Primarily herbivorous grazers — diet should consist of:

    • Mixed grasses and weeds (e.g., dandelion, clover, plantain)

    • Leafy greens (e.g., mixed lettuce, mustard greens)

    • Occasional vegetables (e.g., squash, bell pepper)

    • Red-footed tortoises can have a small portion of fruit weekly (e.g., mango, papaya, berries).

  • Avoid high-protein foods (e.g., dog/cat food) and limit fruit for non-tropical species.

Supplements

  • Calcium without D₃: Every feeding

  • Multivitamin: Once weekly

Feeding Frequency

  • Offer fresh food daily.

  • Remove uneaten food at the end of the day to maintain cleanliness.

Water & Hydration

  • Provide a large, shallow soaking dish at all times — changed daily.

  • Maintain moisture gradients in the substrate to prevent dehydration and pyramiding.

Handling & Behaviour

  • Tortoises are best observed rather than frequently handled.

  • Always support their full body; avoid sudden lifts or loud noises that cause stress.

  • They are strong diggers and may push persistently against enclosure sides.

  • Red-footed tortoises are generally more social and inquisitive than Sulcatas or Leopards.

Cleaning & Hygiene

  • Daily: Remove faeces, uneaten food, and change water.

  • Weekly: Clean surfaces and décor using reptile-safe disinfectant (e.g., F10).

  • Monthly: Replace or refresh substrate and deep clean enclosure or shed.

  • Keep the environment dry but not dusty — balance humidity with ventilation.

Health & Welfare Monitoring

Common Health Issues

  • Pyramiding: Raised shell scutes from poor humidity or diet. Maintain hydration and correct nutrition.

  • Respiratory infections: Wheezing or nasal discharge; check humidity and temperature stability.

  • Metabolic bone disease (MBD): Caused by insufficient UVB or calcium. Review lighting setup.

  • Shell rot: Soft or discoloured shell areas from damp substrate or injury.

  • Parasites: Weight loss or irregular faeces — veterinary testing recommended.