Sulcata Tortoises | The Circle H Boxer &

Sulcata Tortoises, Care, History, and Safe Plants

At The Circle H Ranch, we are dedicated to providing a lifelong safe haven for Sulcata tortoises and Box turtles. As these incredible creatures can live for over 70 years, some around 100. Our commitment is a long-term one that relies on the kindness of our community. Here is how you can help us continue our work focusing on ensuring their physical and mental well-being.

Donate Supplies: We are always in need of tortoise-safe plants, hibiscus cuttings, and spineless opuntia cactus to keep our "living pantry" stocked.
Monetary Contributions: Your donations go directly toward habitat maintenance, specialized veterinary care, and expanding our rescue facilities.
Education & Awareness: Share our guide on safe plants and natural history to help other owners provide the best possible care for their tortoises.
Surrender & Rescue Support: If you know of a tortoise in need of a new home, contact us to see if we have space or can provide temporary assistance.

Natural History of the Sulcata Tortoise

Native Origins: They are native to the southern edge of the Sahara Desert in Africa, ranging across the semi-arid Sahel region from Senegal to Ethiopia.
Size and Longevity: Also known as the African Spurred Tortoise, they are the world's third-largest tortoise species. They can live for 70 years or more and grow to over 100 pounds.
Desert Diet: In the wild, they are primarily herbivores, grazing on high-fiber desert grasses, weeds, and succulents.
Survival Behavior: They are famous for their burrowing, digging deep underground tunnels to escape the extreme heat of the day and stay hydrated in their dry habitat.

Sulcata Care & Conservation Guide

Conservation Status: While common in captivity, wild Sulcatas are vulnerable due to habitat loss. By providing a safe haven at Circle H Ranch, we help protect these ancient travelers.
The "Living Pantry": Sulcatas thrive on a high-fiber, low-protein diet. Planting a variety of safe greens allows them to graze naturally, which is vital for their mental and physical health.

Safe Plants for Their Enclosure

Spineless Opuntia Cactus: A favorite for hydration and calcium.
Broadleaf Plantain: A hardy "weed" that is packed with fiber.
Chia & Alfalfa: Great for young tortoises to munch on as they grow.
Bermuda or Orchard Grass: These should make up the majority of their daily grazing.

Your Garden Their "Munchies"

Hibiscus (Flowers & Leaves): A nutritious treat that adds beautiful color to your yard.
Dandelions: Entirely edible and very high in Vitamin A and calcium.
Mulberry Leaves: A great supplemental snack from a common backyard tree.
Petunias & Pansies: Safe, colorful flowers that they find absolutely delicious.

Sulcata Tortoise Fun Facts

The "Living Tank": They are the third-largest species of tortoise in the world, often weighing over 100 pounds.
Desert Excavators: These tortoises are powerful diggers and can create burrows up to 10 feet deep to stay cool in the desert heat.
Water Wise: Sulcatas can go for weeks without drinking standing water; they get most of their hydration from the succulent plants and grasses they eat.
Ancient Travelers: Their lineage dates back millions of years, making them one of the oldest living reptile groups on the planet.