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New to turtles/tortoises

L

lvl0rg4n

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I've been thinking about looking into a turtle or a tortise. I am not even sure if I have enough space to dedicate to one, so that's where you all come in.

I was wondering what is the smallest land turtle/tortoise there is? I don't need a care sheet or anything.. just a name so I can do the research myself :). I just need somewhere to start.
 
As a beginning tortoise keeper, you might consider tempering your your size requirement with ease of care. With that said, here are a couple of choices:

A Box Turtle would most likely be your best choice. They stay small, are very easy to care for, and are quite personable.

Russian Tortoises are relatively small with males at 6-8" and females up to 10".

Hermann's Tortoises are another good choice with essentially the same size and care requirements.

Those would be the three that I would recommend (in that order).

Good luck with your search.
 
Thanks Mike. This will give me something to do all day at work.

I was wondering what the difference between 2 toed box turtles and eastern box turtles is? Except the extra toe, of course.
 
Just for information the smallest tortoise is probably the egyptian tortoise but rather hard to keep I heard. Very cute though not my photo
 

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lvl0rg4n said:
I was wondering what the difference between 2 toed box turtles and eastern box turtles is? Except the extra toe, of course.
Click to expand...

the main and most obvious differences between T.c.c and T.c.t. is coloration, easterns vary much more than three toes, easterns base color to the shell is a dark color, anywhere from a rich dark caremel to black, three toes usually anywhere from an ivory yellow to an olive green, easterns are the most aquatic ssp. but are still a terrestrial turtle, three toes are usually a little more reserved and hide, but there are always exceptions, alot of people say 3 toes are picky eaters, the only thing mine usually wont touch are mushrooms.
the other visible thing that stands out is easterns have a more stretched out dome shape to their shell, where three toes usually have a uniform dome, but again this can vary among individuals.
http://chelonia.org/terrapenegallery.htm
 
Your area is to dry for a eastern box turtle. They need a hibernation period in 50 degree weather. A tortoise is your best bet. Go or call local pet stores and ask what is best for your area. There also are groups in larger areas and you may find a person close by that has tortoises and can give you tips on local conditions. Best Scott
 
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