Thinking about adopting a sulcata tortoise? These gentle giants are fascinating companions—but they’re also a long-term commitment. With lifespans reaching 50–80+ years and adult sizes of over 100 pounds, sulcatas (Centrochelys sulcata) are not your average pet. This guide will help you understand how to care for one of the world’s largest tortoise species so you can keep your shelled friend happy and healthy for decades to come.
Sulcatas are built for roaming, digging, and basking. Their housing needs change drastically from hatchling to adult.
Sulcatas are also called “African Spurred Tortoises” thanks to the large spurs on their thighs. Despite their size, they can dig burrows more than 10 feet long!
Sulcatas are herbivores with a fiber-heavy diet, similar to a cow’s.
Supplements: Calcium with D3 twice a week; reptile multivitamin once a week
Their constant grazing helps keep their beaks trimmed naturally. Too many soft foods, however, can cause serious health issues like shell deformities.
Like all reptiles, sulcatas benefit from proactive veterinary care.
Tip: Find a vet experienced in reptiles before you need one. Emergency care for tortoises can be harder to find than for dogs or cats.
