African spurred tortoise
African spurred tortoise is quite admired by people as pet besides being a problematic pet. It is also known as African spur thigh tortoise, desert tortoise, African tortoise and sulcata tortoise. These tortoises are mostly found in southern edge of Sahara desert in North Africa. African spurred tortoises are the largest of all mainland tortoises and can weigh up to 200 pounds. The size of African spurred hatchling is 6 – 10 inches. The hatchling grows quickly in the first few years of their lives. Averagely African spurred tortoise can grow up to 24 – 36 inches in length and can weigh about 150 pound. They can live up to 80 years. African spurred tortoise is native to Sahel and Sahara desert. African spurred tortoises are difficult to handle and requires good amount of care. Some of the African spurred tortoise care tips are mentioned below that will help you in keeping your pet healthy.
African spurred tortoise care tips:
1. African spurred tortoise enclosure: African spurred tortoises require a large space to stay and dig in. They like to dig under the plow through seemingly impenetratable barriers. During breeding period male African spurred are very active and might require more room. The suitable enclosure for the African spurred tortoise is the turtle table. The standard size of enclosure for hatchling is 2 foot by 2 foot. the size of tortoise enclosure should increase as the tortoise grows. Adult African spurred tortoises require 8 foot by 8 foot enclosure to stay in. The water dish of the enclosure should be large enough so that the tortoise can soak in and shallow to prevent sit from drowning. The substrate in the dry area of the enclosure should be of top soil. You can also use grass hay as a substrate as it is easy to maintain and provides nourishment if it is nibbled. The enclosure of African spurred tortoise must be dry as these tortoises cannot tolerate wet conditions. If you are providing outdoor enclosure to you r pet then make sure that it is predator proof.
2. African spurred tortoise food: The food that you serve to African spurred tortoise should be rich in fiber sand low in protein. Calcium rich diet is significant for African spurred tortoise as it will ensure good functioning of digestive tract. Avoid serving supermarket fruits and vegetables as they have inadequate fiber and excessive pesticide residue. These tortoises have a habit of grazing so they must be provided with such enclosure where they can graze. You must avoid serving fruits to these tortoises as their digestive system doesn’t allow it. Cat and dog food should be avoided as it may cause renal failure and might lead to death.
3. Breeding African spurred tortoise: Breeding can be done by the breeder or you can do it by your own. Copulation is performed after the rainy season during the months of September to November. Male African spurred fights each other over breeding first with females. Nearly after 60 days of mating, female look for suitable place for nest to lay eggs.