Hi from California

[SightedSphinx]

Hi guys I've been thinking of getting a tortoise, but right now I have no idea of which kind to get... I really want a big outdoor tortoise since I live in southern California. it doesn't get too cold here. Any suggestions? Thank you

 

[DeanS]

Welcome! You should really consider a sulcata! They absolutely thrive in SoCal...but they do get to be anywhere from 100-250 lbs. There are plenty of sources to choose from...not the least of which would be my buddy Tom...who is also a member here. What part of SoCal are you located? I'm in the Antelope Valley!

 

[ascott]

Welcome to the Forum and I suppose it would depend on what your idea of a large tortoise species means....there are some that range from 50 pounds all the way to Aldabra or Galapagos at 600+ pounds....so perhaps you may want to REALLY study and research what you are getting into? Have you ever hosted a reptile before and/or a tortoise?

 

[mctlong]

Agree with the above, definitely depends on how you're defining "big." LOL!
How much outdoor space do you have?

California Desert Tortoises do really well outdoors in SoCal since they're native to the area. The get to about 14" long.

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Welcome to the forum!

 

[mainey34]

Hi guys I've been thinking of getting a tortoise, but right now I have no idea of which kind to get... I really want a big outdoor tortoise since I live in southern California. it doesn't get too cold here. Any suggestions? Thank you

Hello...if. you want big and have the space, I suggest a sulcata..they are great torts...

 

[SightedSphinx]

Thanks everybody for the replies. I live in southern orange county. I have really been looking at the leopard tortoises I love their patterns. I do though, have a small dog, I've read some of the other stories with how incompatible tortoises and dogs are.

 

[sibi]

Yeap. Dogs and tortoises don't mix. Even if you say you have the friendliest dog in the world, they are unpredictable. I have heard horror stories with dogs that would never hurt anything. So, unless you you you can guarantee that your dog will never be alone with your tortoise, I would not have both. Either the dog or a tortoise.

 

[luvpetz27]

Hi and welcome!!