Next Step

[P. Novak]

After feeding(for now) my snake addiction, my lizard addiction, and my frog addiction, I'm looking for to scratch my new itch. I'm looking for some kind of tortoise. I don't want anything that gets so big it can't live in a cage, but stays small or medium. Nothing over 10" please. Something that is also not so difficult to care for. So please you tort experts, help me out.

Thanks,
Paul

 

[Takumaku]

There is no tortoise more personable than a red footed tortoise (Geochelone carbonaria). They range in size from 10-14 inches.

If this is still too large, there is a dwarf variety commonly called "cherry heads" who max out at 10-12 inches.

If both of the above are still too large, the russian tortoise will surely fit your bill. Females are 8-10 inches, while males are 6-8 inches.

 

[Lucara]

Ooo I agree with the red foot. They have to be the most adorable babies alive!

 

[P. Novak]

Ha, funny thing, I was checking out those 2 species already, but the red foot may be a little too big. What's the care like with those?

 

[ZooRex]

I would most definatly say cherry head, I love mine grow slowly and are dwarves none the less.

 

[johnharper]

What about a russian tortiose? If you get a female you could name her Helga lol. I no longer keep turtles anymore I used to have florida soft shells and spiny soft shells. My brother used to have a sulcatta. My favorites are the soft shells, snappers , logger heads, maps , and the spotted turtles. Check out www.turtlepimp.com he breeds alot of exotic turtles and tortioses.

John

 

[JohnEDove]

Dave Penning of Premium Tortoises has some small CB russians for sale at $80 each. http://premiumtortoises.com/default.aspx

 

[P. Novak]

Awesome, thanks a bunch you guys. I think I'm going to go with the Russian Tort and build a 4'Lx2'Dx16" high enclosure for it to use when it is older. What would be the best recommended substrate for it?

 

[Fluke]

yea russian torts are pretty cool. they get like 10-13 inches and live over 35 years. goodluck with them, they are very neat!

 

[JohnEDove]

I think I'm going to go with the Russian Tort and build a 4'Lx2'Dx16" high enclosure for it to use when it is older. What would be the best recommended substrate for it?

I like natural and cheap.
Dirt or play sand & dirt mixed at about 50/50. If you use yard dirt be sure to nuke it while moist in the microwave for about 15 minutes.
If I did not have so many turtle rescues I'd be getting some Russian Torts myself and keep them in the area we keep the box turtles because our climate, soil etc is about the same as their natural habitat.