The Sulcata Tortoise (African Spurred Tortoise) is one of the most popular and rewarding tortoise species in the reptile hobby. Known for their strong personality, steady growth, and impressive adult size, they make excellent long-term pets when cared for the right way. Herp Overload offers healthy, well-started Sulcata tortoises for keepers looking for a lifelong companion.
Ideal Temperature & Heating
Sulcata tortoises thrive in warm, dry environments similar to their natural African habitat.
Daytime Temperature: 85–95°F
Basking Area: 100–105°F
Night Temperature: 70–75°F
Baby Humidity: 60–80% in a warm, enclosed chamber
Adult Humidity: 40–60% with a warm, dry enclosure
Consistent heat and humidity support proper digestion, shell development, and hydration.
Lighting Requirements
Strong lighting is essential for Sulcatas.
UVB: High-output 10.0 UVB or a mercury vapor bulb
Lighting Schedule: 12 hours on / 12 hours off
UVB helps maintain healthy bones and prevents metabolic bone disease.
Enclosure Setup
For Babies
Minimum Enclosure: 40-gallon or closed chamber setup
Substrate: Coconut fiber, cypress mulch, orchid bark, or soil/sand mix
Humid Hide: Prevents pyramiding and promotes smooth shell growth
For Juveniles & Adults
Need large indoor pens or an outdoor enclosure
Minimum Outdoor Space: 8x8 ft (but bigger is highly recommended)
Strong fencing—they push, dig, and ram
Provide shade, hides, grazing area, dry spots, and plenty of roaming room
Sulcatas grow fast and require space to stay healthy and active.
Diet & Feeding
Sulcata tortoises are strict herbivores and thrive on a high-fiber, low-protein diet.
Staple Foods
Fresh grasses
Orchard grass
Bermuda hay
Timothy hay
Collard, mustard, and turnip greens
Additional Safe Options
Hibiscus leaves and flowers
Dandelions
Endive
Escarole
Foods to Avoid
Fruits
Dog or cat food
High-protein diets
Spinach and kale (high oxalates)
Supplements
Calcium 2–3 times per week
Cuttlebone always available
A proper diet prevents pyramiding, unhealthy growth, and long-term health problems.
Water & Hydration
Fresh drinking water available at all times
Soak babies 20 minutes, 2–3 times weekly
Soak juveniles and adults weeklyHydration supports kidney function and smooth shell growth.
Temperament & Handling
Sulcata tortoises are known for being curious, confident, and full of personality.
They tolerate handling but enjoy exploring more than being held
Always support their body when lifting
Limit handling for young tortoises
Many Sulcatas become interactive with their keepers and follow them around.
Adult Size & Lifespan
Sulcatas are one of the largest tortoise species in the world.
Common Adult Size: 70–120 lbs
Large Males: 150+ lbs
Lifespan: 70–100+ years
They are a long-term commitment, ideal for keepers ready for a lifelong companion.
Why Choose Herp Overload?
Offers healthy, well-started Sulcata tortoises
Proper early hydration and growth practices
Honest care guidance before and after purchase
Support for both new and experienced keepers
Ability to help find specific sizes or personalities on request
Herp Overload is dedicated to providing strong, healthy tortoises and giving you the knowledge to raise them the right way.
