Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello there! I saw some tortoise pictures and all and i really would like one. I think i am ready for the responsibility of a tortoise. I just have a lot of questions so i can get started on the right foot. FIrst, what is a cheap, fun tortoise under 10 inches? Could it roam my room? MY room is pretty clean. Would they use a litter box? (i heard they do, but that sounds like crap to me!!! lol). IF they can't roam, how large of an enclosure? Im so sorry for all the ?'s, but i don't trust the petco caresheets one bit and figured i'd ask you guys. Thanks in advance!~!!
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Paullywog

If it has scales or smooth wet skin... snatch it!!!

FIrst, what is a cheap, fun tortoise under 10 inches?

Greek, herman's, russian tortoises are in that range. Wild caught russians can be had for about $50 or so. These need a checkup at a qualified vet, and may cost more in the long run.
You can adopt through your local herp society or other groups, possibly for free (I have two adults that I adopted).

There are captive bred hatchlings that can be purchased in the $100-$200 range.

Could it roam my room?

I wouldn't do that. They can really make a mess when they defecate, and it will stick to the floor, requiring a good scraping. And then there's the smell. Plus they tend to crawl into a corner and dig around, possibly damaging woodwork. They might bite or claw at wires, etc. I don't think it's worth the mess and risk. Plus it's harder to provide a good environment for a semi-desert animal in such a large setting.

Would they use a litter box?

They seem to go wherever they are when the urge hits. Some lizards, like leopard geckos, will go in a corner.

IF they can't roam, how large of an enclosure?

When they are adult size I would provide at least 8 sq ft for one tortoise. More is better.

www.russiantortoise.org is a good source of info.

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Ed
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Trying to keep the fun in Chelonian care