What Are the Different Tortoises That You Can Have for a Pet?

There are about 300 different types of tortoises worldwide, and not all of them make very good pets. Picking the right tortoise to be a pet requires research and knowing what needs a tortoise will have. It is important to match a pet tortoise's habitat needs to the environment you can provide for it. Never capture a wild tortoise and bring it home as a pet, only buy tortoises bred for captivity.

  1. Hermann's Tortoises

    • A Hermann's tortoise is considered a good pet tortoise for beginners. This species of tortoise reaches between 5 to 10 inches in length. They are herbivores in the wild, feeding on plants, flowers, leaves and other vegetation. As a pet they need a diet that is high in fiber and calcium, but low on fat and protein. In the right environment, a safe and secure outdoor habitat is best for these turtles. Indoors, a large open tub that resembles an outdoor environment is best. They enjoy digging and climbing, so make sure an environment suitable to those needs is provided.

    Red-Footed Tortoise

    • Red-footed tortoises vary in size and can grow up to 20 inches in length and 22 to 33 pounds. However, on average they are 12 to 18 inches and 13 to 16 pounds. They come from tropical South America climates, meaning they need warm and humid conditions to survive. They are able to eat more fruit and have some protein unlike many different tortoises. They should live in larger outdoor enclosures and places like Hawaii or Florida provide the right amount of warmth and humidity levels. They are described as being an active, sociable, smart and friendly pet by many owners.

    Russian Tortoise

    • Russian tortoises are considered to be a good pet tortoise for beginners because they are easy to take care of. Russian tortoises will adapt to most habitat conditions, including heat and cold, but are not able to adjust to damp conditions which can cause harm. They reach lengths of between 7 and 8 inches. They are known to climb, dig and burrow and they live on dry and sandy soil. Many tortoises do not hibernate, but Russian tortoises do. They are found in the wild throughout Russia, Europe and the Middle East.

    African Spurred Tortoise

    • The African spurred tortoise originated in Africa and is known for reaching enormous sizes. They can reach between 24 and 31 inches in length and weights of 175 pounds. If this tortoise is chosen as a pet, it needs large outdoor accommodations and indoor heating if a person lives in a cold environment. Places like Arizona and California make great locations for this pet. They are strong and they will dig large burrows in the yard. Because it reaches enormous sizes it takes a lot of time, food and habitat commitments to successfully have this tortoise as a pet. Many people feel overwhelmed after years of taking care of them and have to donate them to rescue shelters.