Turtle Turtle
Turtle Turtle is an African spurred tortoise (Centrochelys sulcata), also known as a Sulcata tortoise, the third-largest tortoise species in the world. Native to the southern edge of the Sahara Desert in Africa, these remarkable tortoises are well adapted to dry, arid environments and are known for digging deep burrows to escape extreme heat.
In the wild, African spurred tortoises live in grasslands, savannas, and desert regions, where they spend much of their day searching for grasses and plants to eat. They are strong diggers and create underground burrows that help keep them cool and protected from predators and harsh weather.
African spurred tortoises can live more than 70 years, making their care a long-term commitment. Sadly, many are purchased as pets without understanding how large they can grow or how specialized their care needs are. As they mature, sometimes reaching over 100 pounds, they often outgrow their homes or outlive their owners’ ability to provide proper care.
About African Spurred Tortoises
African spurred tortoises (Centrochelys sulcata) are one of the largest tortoise species in the world, second only to the Galápagos and Aldabra giant tortoises. They are known for their strength, longevity, and ability to survive in harsh desert climates.
These tortoises are herbivores, meaning they eat plants. Their diet consists mainly of grasses, weeds, and leafy greens that provide the fiber needed for proper digestion and shell development. Unlike many reptiles, African spurred tortoises require consistent sunlight or UV exposure to maintain healthy bones and shells.
Sulcata tortoises are powerful diggers and can create burrows several feet deep, which help regulate their body temperature in extreme heat. In managed care settings, providing digging areas, proper nutrition, and safe outdoor space is essential for their well-being.
Turtle Turtle’s calm nature and impressive size make him a favorite among visitors, especially those learning about the unique needs of long-lived reptiles.
At EARS Sanctuary, Turtle Turtle enjoys:
- Safe, spacious outdoor enclosures with sunny basking areas and shaded retreats
- A diet rich in high-fiber greens to support healthy shell and bone growth
- Opportunities to dig, roam, and explore, just as he would in nature
- Year-round care designed specifically for the needs of his species
- Protection and supervision from trained staff dedicated to his health and well-being
Sanctuaries like EARS provide a safe and stable environment for tortoises like Turtle Turtle who require specialized care and long-term commitment. Here, he receives lifelong support in an environment that allows him to thrive while expressing his natural behaviors.
Turtle Turtle’s calm nature and impressive size make him a favorite among visitors, especially those learning about the unique needs of long-lived reptiles.