Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I live in a suburb of Dallas Texas. I was wondering if there was any type of tortoise I could keep in my yard year round that could tolerate both the heat of the summer (around 100 in July and August) and the cold of the winter (can get to freezing several times in the winter) I currently work with box turtles that free roam in my back yard and its very easy to just allow them to hibernate in the winter as needed as they are naturally from my area. I would really like to work with either sulcatas or leapords but was wondering what I need to do to get them through the winters. What are you doing for your torts in extreme weather.

Thanks for any feedback
Allen

There are a number of tortoises which can handle your high temperatures and several freezing days in the winter. The other question is the amount of rainfall.

I'm in Arizona with temperatures that have ranged from 122 degrees to 18 degrees. Keep in mind the tortoises must have some protection from the elements in the form of hide boxes, burrows, shrubs, etc. but I keep Herman's, Greeks (several species) Marginated, Russians, and African Spurred tortoises outdoors year round without supplemental heat. The temperatures in the winter while dropping below freezing generally warm up into at least the 40's during the day. If you have proper enclosures all these species do well; Leopard tortoise and most other species may be kept outdoors year round, however supplemental heat will be required.

I would suggest attending a local herp meeting and talking with other people in your area.

Good luck,

Jerry
Link

Russian's are probably your best bet because they come from environments with temp extremes similar to yours in Dallas.

Your only issue would be their desire to estivate when the temps start hitting 90-95 on a consistent basis.

Good luck

Ernie