The African Spurred Tortoise (Geochelone Sulcata) is found in Northern Africa. The Spurred Tortoise likes the hot and dry regions of the desert, and they are the largest African tortoise. They have a flat carapace, and thick skin. The males have claws, and they are usually bigger than females. The carapace of females is flatter, and this is one of the best methods to distinguish them.
The maximum size reaches 61-65 centimeters, and it weights an average of 40-60 kilograms. The largest of them reach 100 kilograms! The African Tortoise lives more than 50 years. The known record in captivity is 54 years, but it is believed that they live a lot longer in their natural habitats. The skin color is the same as the one of the carapace, which is great for camouflage. The general color of the tortoise is the one of the sand, which makes it the perfect hiding place. It is an herbivore, and it can hardly be adapted to other habitats. As they have a strong shell and all the defensive weapons possible, the only real enemy of African Tortoise is man.
This tortoise is great as a pet, but they need food and space, and also a habitat that resembles with the natural one. It is not suited for indoor, even if the owner is able to ensure the right temperature.
The African Tortoise has a great ability to dig, so in captivity, you need to take all the measurements to protect it. It is recommended to enclose the space of the tortoise with concrete. Males are aggressive when they are put together.
The environment must always be dry. The light must be strong, and the best one is the natural light. Of course, a part of the enclosure must be shady. As for the furniture required for a tortoise, a large water bowl is recommended, but it is a good idea to fix it in one place.
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