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What tortoise should I get as a pet2007-11-24 2:03:52

I would like a very small species and fairly easy to maintain. I would also like it to be friendly. Are there any websites that will help me find the right species for me and help me purchase one/find a breeder?

Answers:

Tortoises are not a super easy pet- you need to ensure they have the right type of cage (big, escape proof, low-stress, etc.), the right lighting, heating, humidity, diet, etc.

The species that are probably the closest to what you are looking for would be the Greek or Mediterranian Spur-thighed (Testudo graeci) or Hermann's (Testudo hermanni). These are fairly small, fairly easy to keep species that are somewhat common in stores.

The more common Russian tortoise is a bit tricky. It needs a slightly more unusual set of conditions for proper care.

Finding a good breeder is best done through your local herpetological society (reptile enthusiasts club). They know the best places locally and on-line. They also often sponsor breeder shows or reptile expos that are often great places to get good specimans.

As for a helpful website, try:

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I'm guessing one with a shell?

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I have a russian tortoise - he'll only get as big as a football and is very friendly. I keep him in my kindergarten classroom and the kids love to play with him. If you are interesed in russian tortoises here is a great web sight.

http://russiantortoise.org/care_sheet.ht.

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Get a box turtle. The adults are terrestrial, friendly, easy to maintain. They're a bit smaller than most tortoises. You can buy a box turtle in most big pet stores.

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I'm personally a huge fan of Eastern box turtles. You have to be careful to find out which type you get as the care for similar species Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata) or the Florida Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina bauri) or the Three-toed Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina triungulus) can be very different.