Hi,

I have always wanted to have my own tortoise and finally I am old enough to be responsible to look after one by myself!

So, I have done much research. But I have no idea which species of tortoise would be most suited to me.

Hermans, spur-thighed, marginated, horsfield, leopard - I am embarrassed to admit that they are all just tortoise to me. To me, the only difference between the species is markings and size.

This is obviously not true. I would really appreciate some info on the characteristics of the different tortoise species. Maybe recommendations as to which species is best for a newbie to the world of the tortoise.

Thanks very much, Jack.

Hi Jack

 to the TPG forum.

Generally the tortoises most considered to the UK environment are, Iberas (Spur-Thighs), Hermanns or Marginated tortoises. These are all hibernating species, which are best for the UK climate.

Care sheets for tortoises:-

http://www.tortoise-protection-group.org.uk/site/80.asp

(please click the links on the left hand side of the page for each species)

List of recommended UK Breeders:-

http://www.tortoise-protection-group.org.uk/site/70.asp

Just about all tortoises sold by pet shops are imported, which can be very stressful for them and many arrive into the UK with parasitic infestations and other problems; dehydration, hepes etc

Ideas for enclosures:-

http://www.tortoise-protection-group.org.uk/site/58.asp?thissection=17

Despite what pet shops promote vivariums are not suitable for tortoises, they offer only one temperature (a tortoise requires a range of temperatures) and they are far too humid for most species of tortoise.

Heating/lighting

http://www.kimbosreptileworld.co.uk/megaray-120w-self-ballasted-p-145.html

These are the best lamp on the market with regards to UVB output and the length of time they last.

With a lamp holder:-

http://www.kimbosreptileworld.co.uk/clamp-lamp-p-34.html

Diet:-

http://www.thetortoisetable.org.uk/site/tortoise_home_1.asp

HTH
Darren