The tortoise is a land-dwelling reptile that has been around since the time of the Dinosaurs. Tortoises come in all sizes, from the huge Galapagos tortoise to the smaller Red Foot Tortoise and Leopard Tortoise.http://www.reptilefamily.com/world/world-af.html Tortoises cannot swim. They do enjoy a water source (like the sprinklers) but will drown if the water's too deep.
A popular pet tortoise is the Sulcata or African Spur Thigh tortoise. However, that darling little tortoise in the pet shop will grow up to 150 pounds and live about 100+ years, if cared for properly. The growth rate is astonishing. People considering a Sulcata really need to understand what they are in for. They are the third largest land tortoise on earth.
For complete and comprehensive information regarding this docile and charming land tortoise, please visit Pet Sulcata Tortoise.
The Sulcata tortoise, and the Leopard tortoise do not hibernate. http://www.turtlecafe.com/sulcata_and_leopard_tortoise_care.htm
A Family of Sulcata (African Spur Thigh) Tortoises
The tiny things in front are baby Sulcata tortoises. The giant things in back are their parents. The growth rate for a well-cared-for Sulcata is astonishing. By 7 years old, they may weigh close to 50 pounds. The more space and the more food a Sulcata tortoise has access to, the swifter the growth rate.
Assorted Tortoises
In this photo, there are Sulcata tortoises on the left, leopard tortoises in the middle, another Sulcata and a red foot tortoise on the right. All are enjoying fruits and greens, but only the Sulcata and leopard tortoises are herbivores. The red foot tortoise is an omnivore and needs meat in its diet.
Tortoise Books and Related Merchandise
Google Book Search: Tortoise Books
Amazon.com: Tortoise Books | Tortoise Toys & Games
Barnes & Noble: Tortoise Books
eBay: Tortoise Books
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References
Fast Facts
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Life Span
Some species may live for more than 150 years
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Species
There are over 250 different species
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Diet
The Sulcata Tortoise and Leopard Tortoise are vegetarians, but others like the Red Foot Tortoise are omnivores.
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Sulcata Tortoise
Can live 100+ years, grow to be 150 pounds.
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Tortoise's Shell
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Tortoises are Land Dwellers
Tortoises cannot swim. They are not turtles.
