Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey there I am looking to expand my herp world to include a small tortoise or two and am considering a Golden Greek Tortoise... would this be a wise first tortoise for myself?

A little background, I have kept snakes for 8 years now (primarily large boids), rescued 3 red ear sliders and half-way housed a pair of box turtles for 2 months. By no means do I consider myself all that knowledgable about tortoises, but I have done some research and am looking for a hardy tortoise that won't get too BIG.

I have a great enclosure all ready for them, a rubbermaid (the largest I could find... over 4 ft in lenghth). I know the gist of the diet and have the appropriate lights... is there any reason why I shouldn't go ahead and get them? Any pointers? Any necessary lieterature to read?

Please help, any and all feedback is appreciated!

Thanks,
Spahr

Spahr,
I've been keeping Golden Greeks for a few years now and find them to be a very hardy, active, and personable species. They do best in lower humidity. If you live in a real humid area like the southeast, FL, GA, SC, etc. I don't recommend them. Otherwise, they are a pretty good choice.
Good luck,
John