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1 or 2 tortoises?
Posted: 05/02/2015 by rkm

Hi all,

I am in the process of setting up for getting a baby but I have a query about how many to get! Some information I have read suggest buying two that have grown up together. I had only really thought about having 1 as this will be my first and I don't want to take on too much but if they would be happier as a pair then I will consider it. We have plenty of space for them so I am not too concerned about that but it is a bit daunting taking on two. I am looking at Hermanns or Ibera so if one of these is more suited to being on it's own that might influence my decision.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Re: 1 or 2 tortoises?
Posted: 05/02/2015 by Tom

Hello,


They are 100 x more interesting in 2s, it's the observation of their interaction. 
However a male & female cannot be kept together at maturity. 2 males reared together often live harmoniously in the (total) absence of females.

The ideal is to have two females. Sex in tortoises is determined by incubation temp., thus breeders with very accurate incubator control, have a very good chance of predicting gender, though it's not guaranteed.

Two females need the same space as one, are no more 'work' than one & without doubt are happier. 

Regards,
Tom

 
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