Recommended Gear for Tortoise Enclosures

We have had tortoises in my family for 200 years and been breeding Hermann’s, Spur Thighed and Redfoots for the last 40 years so there isn’t much we don’t know about keeping tortoises.

This is our list of recommended gear to help you build a great enclosure, whether that’s indoors or outside.

Best Heating and Lighting for Tortoise Enclosures

Combined Heat and UV bulbs (Mercury Vapour lamps)

A ‘combi bulb’ is an essential piece of kit for your tortoise enclosure as it provides UV and heat in one bulb. These bulbs are made in different wattages to suit different sized habitats. For a small tortoise table, 100 or 125 watts may be sufficient, and for a larger space, table or greenhouse, the 160 watts models are needed. The 160 watt lamp is the most popular with owners for tortoise table environments.

Arcadia D3 UV Basking Lamp, 100 W, E27
  • 100 W E27
  • Generates UVB, UVA and visible light and heat in one lamp
  • No ballast required
  • Beam angle: 50 degrees – perfect for heating a large area
  • Average service life 6,000 hours – 1-year warra
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Of course a bulb is no good without a holder, and this one really delivers on quality:

41ZfOmz8EpL. SL500
AIICIOO Reptile Bulb Holder with Clamp 8.5 Inches Terrarium Lamp Reflector in E27 Ceramic Socket for Lizard Tortoise Bearded Dragon Suitable for UVB and Heating Lamp
  • AIICIOO reptile lamp dome is made of heavy gauge painted aluminum, polished dome reflector and E27 ceramic lamp holder can effectively reflected ultraviolet and keep heat accumulation better than that of no lampshade.
  • Super heat resistance, it can provide an effective uv and heat reflection, for animal to better enjoy the basking and heating
  • Clamp lamp is equipped with On/Off switch and 140 cm long power cord, 3 pins UK plug. Rotatable 360 degrees, in up, down, left and right direction
  • Dome width 21cm/8.5 inches, depth 10cm /3.9 inches (not include socket), please check the bulb size before purchase; make sure the size is good
  • This bulb holder comes with a clamp, its suitable tortoise, lizard, bearded dragon and other reptile terrariums. Its recommended to use with AIICIOO serices reptile lamp, such as UV heating bulb, UVB bulb and ceramic heating bulb. Its suitable for all bulb under 200w. This is only a lamp holder without bu
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Tortoise Table

Tortoises are fascinating creatures that have been around for millions of years. Today, these reptiles are popular pets, and many people choose to keep them in tortoise tables. While these enclosures can provide a suitable home for tortoises, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider.

One of the main concerns is that tortoises may become bored in a small enclosure. They may also become stressed if they cannot access hiding places or if they cannot thermoregulate properly. If you are considering a tortoise table for your pet, it is important to do your research and make sure that the enclosure will meet all of your tortoise’s needs. With proper care, a tortoise table can be a great home for your pet.

4146U7WhDnL. SL500
The Hutch Company Tortoise House (Large)
  • Ethically Hand Made in the UK from Heavy Duty 12MM WBP Ply
  • Length 760mm x 406mm x 170mm
  • Built Specifically for Clamp Lamps
  • Lamp & Fall Guard Available Separately*
  • Self-assem
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Tortoise Toys

Tortoises are naturally curious creatures, and in the wild they would spend their days exploring their surroundings, looking for food, and interacting with other animals. In captivity, it’s important to provide items in their enclosure that will encourage these natural behaviors and help prevent boredom. Otherwise, your tortoise may become lethargic and even ill. Here are some of our favorites. Just make sure that whatever you buy is big enough for your tortoise to comfortably fit inside. For more enrichment ideas – check out my comprehensive tortoise guide!

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30 Tortoise Plants to Feed Them Naturally

Tortoises love to nibble on plants and flowers, so including these in your pet’s enclosure is a great way to keep it entertained. Not only will your tortoise enjoy munching on the foliage, but it will also appreciate the added aesthetic value that plants bring to the space (visual enrichment). Here’s my top picks of tortoise friendly seeds to grow into tortoise food! Plus think how amazing your garden will look and smell. No garden? No problem, you can grow these in containers and windowboxes too!