The Top 10 Tortoise Breeds: A Guide for Aspiring Keepers

A Closer Look at Tortoises and Their Unique Personalities and Care Needs

If you’ve ever been captivated by the charm and allure of these ancient reptiles, you’re not alone. Tortoises have long fascinated people with their gentle demeanour, intriguing behaviours, and unique characteristics. Whether you’re a seasoned pet enthusiast looking to expand your collection or a newcomer eager to embark on a rewarding journey into the world of tortoise keeping, this article is tailor-made for you.

Within these pages, we’ll delve into the captivating world of tortoises and introduce you to ten of the most beloved and popular tortoise breeds among keepers. Each of these remarkable species come with unique traits, care requirements, and personalities, making them a delightful addition to any household.

Aspiring tortoise keepers often face the challenge of choosing the right breed that aligns with their lifestyle, space constraints, and commitment level. Fear not, for we’ve curated this list based on various factors to help you make an informed decision. From the majestic and giant Sulcata tortoise to the charismatic Russian tortoise, we’ve got a diverse selection that covers a wide range of sizes, temperaments, and care needs.

Throughout the article, we’ll provide valuable insights into each breed’s habitat preferences, dietary needs, and specific care tips. Additionally, we’ll discuss essential considerations to ensure you can create a nurturing environment for your new shelled companion.

Embark on this exciting journey with us as we delve into the world of tortoises and discover the wonders each of these ten breeds brings. Whether you’re seeking an affectionate and interactive tortoise or a more independent and easy-to-care-for species, we have something for every aspiring tortoise keeper.

So, let’s take the first step in this enriching adventure, as we unravel the marvels of “The Top 10 Tortoise Breeds: A Guide for Aspiring Keepers.” Let the exploration begin!

1. Russian Tortoise (Agrionemys horsfieldii)

Russian tortoises are among the best species for new pet owners because they’re easy to find. These tortoises prefer dry, barren habitats with lots of rocks and sand but enjoy being near a few plants. They typically live to be over 40 and as long as 100 years.

They are relatively small, usually five to ten inches long, with females slightly larger. These feisty pet tortoises are fun to own and easy to care for if they get proper heat and humidity. They’re known to burrow and dig a lot, so make an escape-proof habitat for your Russian tortoise.

2. Greek Tortoise (Testudo graeca)

The Greek tortoise is very small, usually growing no bigger than 5.5 inches long. They’re one of the mellower pet tortoise species, so they’re great for people who want a calm, amiable pet that won’t be sassy. However, they can be social.

They’re ideal for new pet owners because they require basic tortoise care and don’t have any special needs. They tend to live to 125 or longer, which is a big commitment. These laidback tortoises love to hang out in the sun and then dip in a pool, but otherwise, they are not super active or playful.

3. Hermann’s Tortoise (Testudo hermanni)

Hermann’s tortoises grow five to eight inches, slightly bigger than the abovementioned species. However, they typically live up to 70 and ours are over 100! Hermann’s tortoises are playful, social, and funny. I think these make the best pets.

They often show more personality than other species, and individual tortoises are unique. They enjoy dry habitats with some vegetation but are mostly easy to care for.

4. Leopard Tortoise (Stigmochelys pardalis)

Leopard tortoises can be large, measuring between ten and 18 inches long. Some even grow to be 30 inches long. So, these giant tortoises are only suitable pets if you have a large space for them. They live for 80 to 100 years, which is a massive commitment.

The Leopard tortoise is known for their distinct shell with different shades of brown and has equally bold and outgoing personalities. They are typically very social with their owner but can be aggressive toward other pet tortoises, so having more than one can be problematic.

5. Marginated Tortoise (Testudo marginata)

The Marginated tortoise has smooth shells and bumpy limbs, so they look interesting. They usually grow 14 inches long and can live for 100 to 140 years, so many Marginated tortoises are passed down in families.

They love rocky, mountainous terrain and are adventurers, so they’re ideal for people with large, enclosed outdoor spaces or big homes. These curious tortoises can be shy or friendly but are almost always relaxed and easygoing. They mostly only eat leafy greens and can get cranky without the proper diet.

6. Red-footed Tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonaria)

Red-footed tortoises are medium-sized, growing to between 12 and 16 inches long. These tortoises typically live for about 80 years in captivity and can withstand imperfect conditions more than other species.

Although native to South America, they’ll survive cooler temperatures that could kill other tortoise species. Red-footed tortoises are very active and almost always on the move, so they need lots of space to roam. They’re often shy and passive, so don’t expect them to be playful and affectionate. We have two (Mr and Mrs Red) and they provide endless amusement with their wandering and garden furniture rearranging.

7. Sulcata Tortoise (Centrochelys sulcata)

A Sulcata tortoise can grow to be over two feet long and seriously heavy, often weighing over 100 pounds. They usually live to be older than 80 and up to about 150 years. Sulcatas prefer arid climates with lots of heat. They’ll spend most of the day lounging in the sun but burrow into dirt or mud for hours to cool off, so their habits can be entertaining.

This giant tortoise is more physical and aggressive, as they may knock things over and charge other tortoises or turtle species. However, people love them because they’re very social, loyal, and affectionate toward their owners. You will need a lot of space and sturdy enclosure and definitely don’t keep these in the house! Some escaped from our local pet shop (they were the owners pets, not for sale) and lumbered across the railway line causing the trains to come to a standstill whilst they were herded back home. Not an easy task I can tell you! Read the story here.

8. Indian Star Tortoise (Geochelone elegans)

An Indian Star tortoise can grow to be between seven and 12 inches long, with females on the bigger end of that spectrum. They have beautiful patterns on their shell that make them highly sought after, and they are currently on the threatened species list. Indian Star tortoises can live between 35 and 80 years in the wild, but usually 25 years as a pet, it all depends on their care.

They are easily one of the calmest and shyest types of tortoise, as they tend to hide from people and other animals and are rarely aggressive or outgoing. However, they can be sweet toward their owners and do well with other tortoises of the same species.

9. Pancake Tortoise (Malacochersus tornieri)

Pancake tortoises have a distinct flat shell, making them look leaner and smaller than other types of tortoise. They only grow about seven inches long, so they’re ideal for people with limited space. In captivity, a pancake tortoise can live for up to 50 years.

These little adventurers love to climb and explore, so they can be flight risks if not appropriately enclosed. Expect a lot of activity, playfulness, and agility from these tortoises. Pancake tortoises often respond well to hand-feeding, head pats, and shell rubs. Their flat shells allow them to flip over quickly if they find themselves upside down!

10. Egyptian Tortoise (Testudo kleinmanni)

The Egyptian tortoise, native to North Africa, grows to be very small, averaging four inches long. They’re likely the best species on this list for owners with limited space. Egyptian tortoises usually live past 70 and can grow as old as 100.

This tortoise breed can thrive in various environments, including deserts, semi-desert, marshes, and woodlands, making them one of the most adaptable types of tortoise. If you want a super social pet, Egyptian tortoises are not ideal. They are passive, shy, and stand-offish and usually dislike being picked up or touched.

Which tortoise is right for you?

While all these tortoises are wonderful options for first-time tortoise owners, they still require substantial care, attention, and effort.

Do not take adopting a pet tortoise lightly; they usually live past 30, so it’s a significant, long-term commitment. This article is a helpful overview of the ten species, but we recommend doing more research into the specific species if you plan to adopt them. Pay attention to the conservation status as well as some tortoise populations may be affected by habitat loss.