Sulcata Tortoise Care Sheet

Common Name

Sulcata Tortoise, African Spurred Tortoise

Scientific Name

Centrochelys sulcata

Group or Family

Testudinidae (Tortoise Family)

Keeper Level

Intermediate to Advanced – Due to their large size, long lifespan, and specific habitat needs, Sulcata tortoises require dedicated care and ample space.

Handler Level

Low – Sulcatas are generally docile but do not enjoy frequent handling. They are best observed rather than handled extensively.

Species Background and Natural History

The Sulcata tortoise is the third-largest tortoise species in the world and the largest mainland species. It originates from the arid and semi-arid regions of Africa, particularly the Sahara Desert and Sahel. Sulcatas are burrowing tortoises, using their strong front legs to dig extensive burrows to escape extreme temperatures.

Distribution

Native to the Sahel region of Africa, spanning across countries such as Chad, Mali, Sudan, Ethiopia, and Niger.

Life Span

50–100+ years with proper care.

Caging Size

Hatchlings/Juveniles: A 4ft x 2ft enclosure is sufficient for young Sulcatas.
Sub-Adults/Adults: Require a large outdoor pen (at least 100 sq. ft. per tortoise) with secure fencing and digging barriers.

Temperature Requirements

Daytime: 80–100°F (27–38°C)
Basking Spot: 100–110°F (38–43°C)
Nighttime: No lower than 70°F (21°C); in colder climates, supplemental heat is required.

Heating and Lighting Requirements

UVB Lighting: Essential for proper calcium absorption. Use a T5 HO UVB 10.0 tube or Mercury Vapor Bulb if housed indoors.
Heat Source: Ceramic heat emitters, basking lamps, or radiant heat panels for maintaining temperatures.
Outdoor Housing: Natural sunlight is best but ensure access to shade and a heated shelter if temperatures drop below recommended levels.

Diet and Feeding

Sulcatas are herbivorous grazers, primarily consuming high-fiber, low-protein foods.

Staples: Grass, hay (Timothy, Orchard, Bermuda), dandelion greens, clover.
Occasional: Dark leafy greens, opuntia (prickly pear cactus), hibiscus leaves.
Avoid: High-sugar fruits, legumes, and excessive protein sources.

Supplements

Calcium with D3: 2–3 times per week if housed indoors; pure calcium (without D3) if receiving adequate UVB outdoors.
Multivitamins: Once per week for juveniles, every other week for adults.

Breeding Notes

Maturity: Reaches sexual maturity around 10–15 years old.
Egg Clutch Size: 15–30 eggs per clutch; females can lay multiple clutches per season.
Incubation: 80–90 days at 86–89°F (30–32°C).
Behavior: Males can be aggressive towards each other, especially during mating season.

Handling

Sulcatas do not like frequent handling and may become stressed.
Support the full body when lifting to prevent injury.
Avoid excessive handling of hatchlings, as they are delicate.

Additional Comments

Housing Consideration: Due to their large size and strength, outdoor housing is best for adults. Secure fencing (at least 24” deep) is necessary to prevent burrowing escapes.
Enrichment: Provide logs, plants, and safe digging areas to encourage natural behaviors.
Cold Weather: Sulcatas do not tolerate cold temperatures and must be provided with a heated shelter or brought indoors in winter.
Ownership Commitment: Owning a Sulcata is a lifetime commitment, as they live for many decades and grow to be over 100 pounds.