Leopard Tortoise – Tips On Diet & Housing Needs

Pet Care

oi-Gowri Nandini

By Nandhini Devi

Thursday, August 4, 2011, 16:30

Leopard tortoises are the fourth largest among tortoises. Like all tortoise hatchlings, these tortoises are very tiny at birth. They grow up to 18 inches in length and can weigh up to 18 kilograms. The larger variety can grow up to 28 inches and weigh up to 54 kilograms. In very cases, such as the ones found in Sudan, can grow up to 45 inches and weigh almost 100 kilograms. They live for long, at least 50 – 80 years, if taken care of properly.

Leopard tortoises are attractively coloured, with the skin in yellow or cream, while the shell has black splotches, stripes or dashes. The markings are very unique from one tortoise to another. They are a little shy by nature and tend to retreat into their shells, with a slight hissing sound.

Let's have a look at the leopard tortoise diet and feeding habits.

1.These tortoises are herbivorous, they feed mostly on grass or green leaves or straw. Make sure that the grass is pesticide-free. Their favourite grass is orchard or timothay grass.

2.Vegetables too can be fed, but not in large quantities. However, avoid spinach or beans.

3.Fruits should not be given to these reptiles. It causes bacterial infection in their stomach and also bloats their tummy.

4.Do not feed it with any other animal or pet food.

5.To balance calcium in the tortoise's body, you can give it a piece of cuttlebone for chewing.

6.One important thing that has to be added to your leopard tortoise's diet is a daily supplement of calcium-D3 pellet. It should be given less frequently to adult tortoises.

Leopard tortoise housing needs:

1.Outdoor housing is best suited for this type of tortoise. The enclosure should protect the tortoise from predators. Adjust the day time temperature to 27-30 degrees and the night temperature to 19-24 degrees. Keep a pan with enough water and create hiding places.

2.If you choose indoor housing, create a shelter that is about 4 by 8 feet in size. Install a UVA / UVB light and create a basking spot, which has a temperature of 35 degrees. The rest of the shelter must have the same temperature as the outdoor shelter area.

Apart from knowing about your pet tortoise's housing and dietary needs, you also need to socialize with it, right from the time it is a baby. Interact with him well, as your love will keep him stress-free and contribute towards his positive health.