Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi All,

I used to have a Bearded Dragon but he past away about 6 months ago and now I would like to get something a different. I have been looking for a turtle/tortoise, and would like to get some help.

I am looking for more of a terrestrial pet as opposed to completely aquatic so I am assuming a tortoise would be best. Please correct me if I am incorrect. And also one that could stay indoors, but could be taken outside from time to time. I am in Texas, so it will get too hot during the summers.

I have a 2' x 4' wooden enclosure with sliding glass doors fit with UVA/UVB lighting. Attached is a picture of the enclosure. I need to do some work on the cage to make it suitable for a tortoise, mainly substrate (no big deal).

What species of tortoise would make a good pet, but still be small enough to remain in the 2x4 enclosure as I do not have too much space to expand.

Thanks in advance, these forums were great support when I had my beardie through all of the ups and downs - sickness and all.

Hi, 2x4 is pretty small for just about any tortoise. Even the small ones like to stomp all over all the time it seems. I think a single Russian tort would do ok in there if it was also allowed some out time to wander around. Russians are pretty easy to keep assuming there is a good diet and good lighting as well. Google Testudo horsfieldi or Russian Tortoise and take a look.

Carole
-----
----------------------
www.reptilecare.com

A very good choice would be an Egyptian Tortoise, but they may be a bit costly for your taste. However, there is a fellow from TX who breeds them very successfully, so I know they do well there.