The Land Tortoise

Now here is a small pet that boys will be especially interested in….the land tortoise! Ok, I’ll admit, land tortoise is just a fancy way of saying, turtle…but in my opinion, I sound more intelligent when I say land tortoise…ha! Turtles that live on land are usually called tortoises, but otherwise they are hardly different from water turtles. It is VERY IMPORTANT that you buy your tortoise from a reputable breeder or pet store as they can carry salmonella. Salmonella is very serious and can cause both children and adults to become very ill. So, again, I must reiterate…buy a tortoise from a reputable breeder or store!

Before you buy a tortoise make sure you are ready for a long commitment! Tortoises that are properly cared for can live approximately 15 to 25 years! Sadly, many do not receive proper care; therefore, they die way before their time is up.

Land tortoises vary in size depending on the species. Some grow to be as big as a dinner plate…even larger. It is very important that you know and understand the exact needs of the tortoise that you are interested in buying as your hard-shelled friend will need adequate room as he grows up. In other words…don’t buy a tortoise that will eventually need an actual room or outdoor pen in order to live if you cannot accommodate it. That would be bad…for you…and the tortoise!

Tortoises can have many special requirements (depending on the species). You should learn as much as possible about the tortoise you are purchasing BEFORE you bring it home. Some need very dry environments while others need a lot of humidity. Many tortoises (though called LAND tortoises) need water for soaking. After all, who doesn’t enjoy a good soak now and again?! There are also special lighting and dietary needs to consider. Many experts consider tortoises incredibly difficult to keep healthy and happy in captivity…so I hope you are up for the challenge! If you are not…please do not get a tortoise…don’t even think about it!

Tortoises have special dietary needs however most eat dark, leafy greens, ripe fruits, insects, special tortoise pellets, and calcium supplements. It is important that you clean old food out of their cage at the end of each day and provide fresh food and water daily. Believe it or not, your tortoise will also need exercise…the more the better! Tortoises should be taken out of their habitats at least once a week so they can take a little stroll. They also enjoy fresh air and sunshine…so the more you can take them outside (weather permitting) the better! Land tortoises eventually become very accustomed to their owners and may eventually even beg for food. They don’t, however, like to be handled. So hands off the tortoise!

If you are willing to do your homework, educate yourself and put in the time it will take to care for a special pet such as the land tortoise…then I say go for it! Land tortoises are wonderful and interesting pets.