Sulcata Tortoise Facts

Sulcata Tortoises are the 3rd largest tortoise species.  They can weigh well over 120 pounds. Sulcata Tortoises love warm weather.  They are from the dry African Savannas and they do best with sunny climates.  Sulcata Tortoises can live over 100 years old and they are one of the longest living animals.  Sulcata Tortoises are very strong.  A Sulcata tortoise’s muscular system is much stronger than other land vertebrates.  They are giant, heavy and unaware of their strength.  Sulcata Tortoises have no teeth.  Instead they have a powerful sharp beak.  Male Sulcata Tortoises make a lot of noise during mating time.  Grunting, groaning, shell banging, head butting….it is a spectacle to witness.  And there is no shyness going on.  Sulcata Tortoises can burrow through walls.  They can dig burrows 20 feet long and go through housing foundations.  They need outside housing and lots of space.  Too much protein, or an improper diet can cause their shell to deform, which is known as pyramiding. 
Sulcata Tortoises do not make good pets.  First of all, they will likely out live you.  Who will then take them?   They are hard to keep safely contained and need a lot of outdoor space.  They do not cuddle, play with you, or reciprocate affection.  They are independent and like to be alone.  Because they are from Africa, they require special temperatures which require the use of heat lamps and regular tortoise soaks to help regulate.  They grow fast and big and some are not-so-friendly liking to head butt and ram people and pets.  They can be very territorial and will stand their ground to defend it if anyone is encroaching on their turf.  They love to patrol their fence line and be on watch.  They may charge you in you are in their way.  If you would like to see or learn more about Sulcata Tortoises, please visit a reputable sanctuary.  They are really cool animals, but they are not good pets.