Newbie here (:

[Kayyb27]

So I recently just got a sulcata from my friend(she's moving away and can't take it with her) its about four years old. I have been researching to make sure I raise it right and any helpful information would be great! He has not been raised on the right diet(ill be switching it asap) so his shell started to pyramid, does the shell ever go back to normal? I live right outside Los angles, can he be living outside? I know these might be some basic questions but I want to make sure he is living a healthy life and do everything right(my friend was a little clueless with what to do with the tortoise so I can't really ask her anything) Any additionally information would be!

 

[Dizisdalife]

Hi, and welcome to The Forum. You have come to the right place. Unfortunately, the pyramiding is not reversible. With the proper diet and exercise it's overall health will improve and the new shell growth will be smooth. If you have the room outside and can provide a secure enclosure, that is the way to keep him. Sulcata need to be kept warm, so you will need a heated house for your tortoise. It's not hard to do. There are several example in the Enclosure Section of the Forum.

 

[Yvonne G]

Hi Kay, and welcome to the Forum!

The weather in SoCal is pretty good for tortoises to live outside. You may have to add supplemental heat inside his dog house/shelter/shed for cold nights and cloudy days.

 

[mainey34]

Hello and welcome. Did your friend keep your sulcata inside or out? Do you have measurements and weights on him? That would help. Could you post a pic of your new friend?