Proper Diet and Housing

A high fiber, low protein and calcium rich diet will ensure good digestive tract function and smooth growth. Avoid over reliance upon “supermarket” greens and fruits, which typically contain higher protein levels and excessive pesticide. Every effort should be made to duplicate this diet in captivity. Fruit should be given sparingly to this species, as too much can cause diarrhea..

DIET:
Orchard grass or hay foods. I use carrots, bell peppers, and a little bit of tomatoes, squash, zucchini, pumpkin Timothy or Bermuda Grass, Rye, Alfalfa, Blue Grass, Fescue Leafy greens (dandelions, clover, endive, grape leaves, mulberry leaves ) Cactus pads "Opuntia cactus" Spineless Prickly Pear Cactus, high fiber and good calcium, Rose Petals, and Hibiscus Flowers Lawn clippings (pesticide free) Various greens (Mustard Greens, Escarole, Romaine Lettuce, Kale, dandelions, etc. Mazuri Tortoise Diet “soak with warm water drain excess water, mix with greens and veggies European salad mix Additional calcium supplementation is essential. Powdered calcium can be sprinkled on all foods. It is suggested that one use calcium supplement with vitamin D3 if the animal is being maintained indoors and calcium without D3 if it is outdoors. Provision of cuttle bone, which can be gnawed if desired, is also recommended.

INDOOR HOUSING:
The tortoises should be provided with 12 hours of full spectrum light to provide UVB, and be maintained with a temperature optimum of 90 degrees for basking, with a slight drop at night. There should be a hide box located in the corner away from the basking spot to allow the tortoise a cooler dim retreat.

A water dish for soaking if desired by the tortoise, but shallow enough to protect from drowning. Organic topsoil and children’s play sand is a suitable substrate. You could also use grass hay. Alfalpha pellets are suitable for hatchlings.

OUTDOOR HOUSING:
Tortoises should be provided water, shade and shelter, preferably heated. Predator proof outdoor habitats offer advantages over indoor accommodations and should be seriously considered an option once the tortoises reaches a suitable size (6”- 8”), too heavy for another small animal to carry it away.

This species hibernates in nature. Research and provide safe hibernation facilities for continued health and well being of the tortoise.

Please note that tortoise care research is ongoing. Please visit www.chelonia.org; care is discussed on their free online email community. You can also make donations to preserve these wonderful creatures in their native habitats.