🐢 General Info


The African Spurred Tortoise (Centrochelys sulcata), more commonly known as the Sulcata Tortoise, is the third largest tortoise species in the world, native to the southern edge of the Sahara Desert in Africa. These hardy tortoises are named for the prominent “sulci” (grooves) between their scutes and their powerful, spurred legs adapted for digging.


Sulcatas are known for their strong personalities, impressive size, and long lifespans. They are highly intelligent and can become very interactive with their keepers, often following their caretakers around and recognizing familiar people.

However, they require significant space, heat, and long-term commitment — adults often exceed 24–30 inches in length, weigh 80–150 lbs, and can live 70+ years with proper care.


Enclosure


Size:

  • Hatchlings/Juveniles: 4 ft x 2 ft indoor enclosure (minimum) or large outdoor pen with protection.

  • Adults: Outdoor enclosure is strongly recommended; minimum 10 ft x 10 ft with secure fencing at least 18–24 inches deep underground to prevent burrowing escapes.

  • Bigger is always better — these are grazing, roaming animals that need space to explore.

Material:

  • Outdoor enclosures should use sturdy wood or brick walls. Avoid wire fencing they can see through, as it encourages pacing.

  • Indoor enclosures can be made of sealed wood, PVC, or custom-built tortoise tables that retain heat and humidity.

Substrate:

  • Use coconut coir, organic topsoil, or a sand/soil mix for juveniles indoors. Depth of 4–6 inches allows limited digging.

  • For outdoor setups, natural grass or compacted soil works well. Avoid sharp gravel or mulch.

Décor: Provide a hide large enough for the tortoise to turn around in, flat stones for wearing down nails and beak, and logs or shaded areas outdoors. Include a shallow water dish and grazing areas.


Temperature & Lighting


  • Basking Spot: 95–105°F


  • Ambient Day Temperature: 80–90°F


  • Cool Side: 75–80°F


  • Night Temperature: Should not drop below 70°F for juveniles. Adults can tolerate down to 60°F if kept dry.


  • UVB Lighting: Essential for proper calcium absorption and bone growth. Use a T5 HO 10–12% UVB bulb indoors, or natural sunlight outdoors.

  • Replace UVB bulbs every 6–12 months. Without UVB, Sulcatas will develop metabolic bone disease (MBD), which is painful and often fatal.

  • Day/Night Cycle: 12–14 hours of light daily. Sulcatas are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day.


  • Heating: Use ceramic heat emitters, radiant heat panels, or basking bulbs indoors. Always regulate heat sources with a thermostat.


Humidity & Water


  • Humidity:

  • Juveniles: 50–70% to prevent pyramiding (shell deformities).

  • Adults: 40–60% is sufficient, though higher humidity during growth periods is beneficial.

  • Water: Provide a shallow water dish large enough for soaking but easy to exit. Replace water daily and keep it clean.


  • Soaking:

  • Juveniles: Soak in shallow, lukewarm water 3–4 times per week for 15–20 minutes.

  • Adults: Once a week or as needed during hot/dry weather.

  • Shedding & Hydration Tip: Proper hydration prevents flaky skin, shell pyramiding, and kidney issues.


Diet


  • Type: Strictly herbivorous — high-fiber, low-protein, calcium-rich diet.


  • Staple Foods:

  • Grasses & Hay: Bermuda, Timothy, Orchard, or Prairie grass (should make up ~70–80% of the diet).

  • Greens: Collard greens, mustard greens, turnip greens, dandelion greens, endive, escarole.

  • Weeds & Wild Plants: Plantain, clover, hibiscus leaves, and mulberry leaves.

  • Occasional Treats: Squash, cactus pads (nopales), prickly pear fruit, or small amounts of pumpkin.


  • Avoid: Spinach, iceberg lettuce, high-protein foods (dog/cat food), beans, peas, or fruits high in sugar. These can cause digestive and kidney problems.


  • Supplements:

  • Calcium powder 3–4 times per week.

  • Multivitamin once a week.

  • Provide a cuttlefish bone for self-regulated calcium intake.

Behavior & Handling


  • Temperament: Sulcatas are curious, strong-willed, and very active. They enjoy exploring and digging. Males can sometimes become territorial, especially toward other males.


  • Handling:

  • Limit handling, especially for adults due to their size.

  • Always support their body evenly.

  • Avoid lifting from behind as it can stress them and cause them to urinate defensively.

  • Enrichment: Offer varied terrain, logs to push, and safe areas to dig. Regular outdoor grazing time in a secure yard provides mental and physical enrichment.


Health & Lifespan


  • Lifespan: 60–80 years on average, with some reaching over 100 years in captivity with excellent care.


  • Common Health Issues:

  • Pyramiding: Caused by poor humidity, low calcium, or high protein diet.

  • Respiratory infections: From cool, damp environments — keep warm and dry.

  • Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): From lack of UVB or calcium.

  • Shell Rot: From constantly wet or unsanitary conditions.

  • Parasites: Check fecals regularly and maintain a clean enclosure.


Final Note: The Sulcata Tortoise is a magnificent, long-lived species that requires serious commitment. They’re not suitable for small enclosures or temporary setups — but with proper space, diet, and care, they become lifelong companions full of character and intelligence. Their strength and determination are unmatched, and caring for one is both a challenge and a deeply rewarding experience.