Sulcata Tortoise
Centrochelys sulcata
Class: Reptilia Order: Testudines Family: Testudinidae
Size
Size (Males): 120 – 200 lbs
Size (Females): 65 – 75 lbs
Lifespan
50 years
Diet
Grasses, fruit, and flowers
Habitat & Range
Desert and grasslands of Northern Africa
Interesting Facts
Sulcata Tortoises are the third largest species of tortoise, behind the Galapagos tortoise and the Aldabra tortoise.
Sulcatas are popular in the pet trade, however most people are not prepared to properly care for them. They grow quickly, require large enclosures, can be destructive, and they have very long lifespans.
Males and females look very similar, but there are some physical differences. The females tend be smaller in size. The underside of the male’s shell (plastron) is also more concave and their tails are longer.
Sulcata tortoises burrow, particularly when the weather is very hot or cold. Their burrows are usually about 30 inches deep, but they may reach depths of 10 feet.
All sulcata tortoises at Southwick’s Zoo are rescued. Many were personal pets while others came to the zoo from tortoise rescue organizations.
Conservation Status
Endangered
Threats
Sulcata tortoises are threatened by habitat loss and collection for the illegal pet trade.
