Sulcata Tortoiseshells is one of the most expensive pet turtles but they are worth every penny. They are extremely intelligent and very easy to care for. Unlike other species of tortoises, they are shy and will usually hide from you. Once you are comfortable with your Sulcata, you will love the pet for the long years it lives.
The most important factor in keeping a Sulcata healthy is their diet. Your Sulcata turtle will prefer a diet rich in vegetables and greens over a mixture of fruits and grains. Your Sulcata turtle will also be happier in a small cage than a large enclosure. In a smaller area your Sulcata turtle will eat out of the soil more often and chew up her food faster than usual.
The next thing that goes into good Sulcata turtle care is the humidity and temperature of the habitat. A dark cage is better than one with too much light, as this too can cause respiratory problems. You should check the humidity and heat of the enclosure at least twice daily; once in the morning and again in the evening. When it gets too hot or humid, the turtles are less likely to tolerate the environment. Do not attempt to change the humidity unless you are experienced with breeding and tortoise care.
It is very important to have enough calcium in the diet, and to cut back on the fatty oils. Grasses and seeds are good foods for your sulcata tortoises because they contain plenty of calcium. Do not feed your turtle peas, beans, or spinach. All these foods contain fatty oils, which are not good for them.
There are several foods you should avoid feeding your African sulcata tortoise habitat, and you should only provide these to old or sick animals. Raw vegetables and fruits should be off limits as well because they contain acids that will cause indigestion. To freshen up their water, you can try giving them coconut milk, fresh fruits, or sweetened water. Avoid giving your pet sugar as this can also be toxic. You can give them a powdered substance that they can soak in water in order to detoxify.
It is important to buy your pet from a reputable breeder. They will usually be able to answer all your questions and help you choose the best animal to suit your needs and lifestyle. Buying a captive bred African sulfate may increase your chances of having a longer lifespan. But remember that buying a pet does not make it easier to take care of it. You must have patience and take extra care when caring for an exotic or domestic reptile. Caring for these pets is completely different than caring for other reptiles.