How big does a African spurred tortoise get?
The carapace of adults averages 18 inches in length, but can be as much as 2 or 3 feet long. These tortoises weigh an average of 70-100 pounds, but can weigh up to 200 pounds. Spurred tortoises have adapted many ways to thrive in extreme heat.
How big is a full grown sulcata tortoise?
They are very slow growers and won’t reach their adult size until 15 to 20 years old. Adult females will typically weigh 70 to 90 pounds and measure 24 to 30 inches. Males will be slightly larger than females. Some of the largest and oldest Sulcatas have reached weights much greater than 100 pounds.
How much do African spurred tortoise cost?
Geochelone sulcata is a hardy and personable species of tortoise. Native to sub-Saharan Africa, it became part of the lucrative pet trade during the 1990s. It has an engaging nature, is attractive and sells for anywhere between $50 and $1,000.
Is it legal to own an African spurred tortoise?
Although it’s legal to keep tortoises as pets in California, owners need to apply for a permit to own desert tortoises that are native to the area. Sulcata tortoises, hailing from Africa, are exempt from this permitting process — but they are not necessarily the ideal pets for every family.
How fast does a African spurred tortoise grow?
They grow from hatchling size (2–3 in) very quickly, reaching 6–10 in (15–25 cm) within the first few years of their lives. They can live more than 70 years.
Do African spurred tortoises bite?
So do tortoises bite? Yes, tortoises do bite. While they are typically very docile and peaceful, they are able to use the strength of their beaks to bite each other, other pets and sometimes humans for a variety of reasons.
How much does a full grown tortoise cost?
Adults, due to their size, can cost anywhere from $1,500 – $2,000. Greek Tortoise/Spur-Thighed Tortoise – Another popular species due to its small size even as adults, making them easy to care for.
How long does it take for a sulcata to be fully grown?
It generally takes them 15-20 years to be become fully grown, with the males being slightly larger (typically wider and heavier) in size. Baby sulcata tortoises on the other hand a quite small, only reaching 7″ in width and 2″ in height by the end of the first year of life; weighing as little as 100 grams.
How much is a full grown tortoise?
Sulcata Tortoise/African Spurred Tortoise – The Sulcata is the third largest tortoise in the world, behind the Galapagos and Aldabra Giant Tortoises, and cost between $50 – $70 for hatchlings. Adults, due to their size, can cost anywhere from $1,500 – $2,000.
Can I hold my tortoise?
Tortoises do not generally enjoy being handled. Care should be taken to avoid dropping your tortoise whilst handling. They have very strong legs, so support your tortoise firmly at all times whilst handling.
How big does an African spurred tortoise get?
The African Spurred Tortoise can measure up to 80 centimetres (2.63 feet) in length for the males and 50 centimetres (1.64 feet) in length for the females. Males weigh around 100 kilograms (220.75 pounds) and females 60 kilograms (132.45 pounds).
What should I do with my African spurred tortoise?
Fragile plants are likely to be destroyed by the tortoises once the animals have any size to them. For raising young African Spurred, you can try Sulcata tortoise indoor habitat creation. While outdoor housing is preferred anytime the temperatures are in the acceptable range; many people raise their sulcatas indoors for the first few years of life.
What kind of shell does African spurred tortoise have?
This tortoise of the desert is well camouflaged with its overall sandy colors, having thick yellow-brown to golden skin and a brownish shell. Its wide, oval carapace shows noticeable grooves at its front and back edges and noticeable growth rings on each scute, which become marked, particularly with age.
Are there any African Sulcata tortoises for sale?
African Sulcata tortoises for sale are some of the most popular species of tortoise for sale in the world. Growing quickly and producing a high quantity of eggs per clutch, a baby Sulcata tortoise is also affordable. When compared to other species of baby tortoises for sale, the Sulcata is usually less expensive.