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looking for a good tortoise

L

lady4feet

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Hello I'm new here. I'm looking into getting my first tortoise. I am of course doing lots of research but I'd like to get other owners opinions to. I am looking for a tortoise that is hardy, won't get to big because they are going to have to live in a indoor inclosure, and doesn't hibernate. I really like the star tortoise but they are a bit more then I wanted to spend.
I'm not new to the turtle world(I've had my box turtle for 7 years) but would like a good beginner tortoise.
Any suggestion would be much appriciated.
 
leopard tortoises or sulcatas

Leopards or sulcatas are really fascinating tortoises, They do get rather large however, and i dont know how big you plan on having your indoor enclosure. Neither of them hibernate and are readily available. Good luck :)
 
good beginners

Hey! I'm so happy that you're considering a tortoise! I have 2 sulcatas and 2 Russians myself. Both are wonderful but sulcatas have the potential to get up to 200 lbs. Russians are very sweet turtles. They're always curious and are so personable. They stay a very nice size too. I don't hibernate mine and they're doing great, although some prefer to do so. Another nice starter is the Hermann's tortoise, if you want something a little bigger than a Russian. These are all great choices in my opinion, but if you have any more questions don't hesitate to ask :)
 
The Tortoise for you is a Pancake Tortoise. They come from Africa, grow about 7 inches long and do not hibernate. You might be able to find one from a breeder or show, but probably not in a reptile house/petstore as I have found them to be relatively uncommon in the pet trade. Be sure to supply them with climbing rocks though as they come from rocky regions. They can also be kept in colonies. An easier Tortoise to find is a Hernanns Tortoise. They are roughly the same size, but hibernate they benefit from outdoor terrariums. Supply these with climbing rocks as well. Take care: when moving heavy objects such as climbing rocks, move your tortoises clear out of the terrarium and the path of the rock beforehand to avoid injury. For care on any of these tortoises get Popular Tortoises by Phillippe de Vosfol (spelling?)Good luck in finding what you are looking for.
 
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