New to this question about sizing

[Mommy22boys]

Hi guys! I am new to the tortoise world. Can someone please explain the sizing? For a tort that is 20" what does that really mean? That's not the huge ones that weigh several hundred pounds right? That size is still manageable in an indoor setting? It can still be picked up right?

Thanks
Tessa

 

[Yvonne G]

Hi Tessa...I'm afraid that's almost exactly what it means. A tortoise that attains the SCL of 20" means he measures in a straight line, from front to back 20" In order to be that long, he will more than likely be about 75 to 100lbs, and still growing. No tortoise grows to 20" except the bigger species.

A 20" tortoise will have to be housed outside. He would be terribly unhappy being cooped up indoors.

 

[Mommy22boys]

Thank You

 

[Terry Allan Hall]

For indoor keeping (and only in the winter, as tortoises need to be outside when it's sunny), you'll want a smaller species, one that tops out around 12" or less. Much better for everyone, including the tortoise.

The Mediterranean tortoises (Greeks, Hermann's, Steppes, and/or Marginateds) are all good "starter" tortoises...hardy, not too large, easy to feed, and great personalities.

For an indoor (Winter) enclosure, 3' X 6' is pretty good, but a little bigger is even better. For an outside enclosure, 5' X 8' or larger is excellent.