Sulcata Tortoise – A Hardy, Long-Lived Giant for Dedicated Keepers in the UAE

The Sulcata Tortoise (Centrochelys sulcata), also known as the African Spurred Tortoise, is the third-largest tortoise species in the world and one of the most popular giant tortoises in the exotic pet community. Native to the southern edge of the Sahara Desert, Sulcatas are perfectly adapted to hot, arid environments—making them an excellent long-term reptile companion for dedicated keepers in the UAE.

At Sahara Exotics in Ajman, we provide well-started, healthy Sulcata Tortoises to responsible owners in Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and across the Emirates. These tortoises are ideal for spacious gardens, farms, or custom-built enclosures, where they can thrive under proper care.

Appearance and Size

Sulcata Tortoises are large, heavy-bodied reptiles with thick, rugged legs and deeply grooved shells. Their carapace is light brown to yellowish-tan with distinct growth rings on each scute, giving them a textured, desert-adapted appearance. As they age, their shell develops more pronounced ridges and a beautiful patina.

• Hatchlings: Around 5–7 cm

• Adults: 60–75 cm in length and 40–70 kg in weight

• Males tend to grow larger than females and develop longer spurs on their hind legs

Their sheer size, strength, and long lifespan require serious planning and commitment.

Behavior and Temperament

Sulcatas are terrestrial, slow-moving reptiles with curious and confident personalities. Despite their size, they are relatively docile and interactive, often approaching keepers for food or attention. They are solitary by nature and do not require companions.

Key behavioral traits:

• Diurnal – active during the day, especially in the morning and late afternoon

• Strong diggers – often dig burrows to escape heat

• Calm and non-aggressive, though territorial males may occasionally show dominance

• Intelligent and capable of forming routines around feeding and enclosure use

They are best kept outdoors in secure, escape-proof areas, especially as they mature and require more space.

Housing Requirements in UAE Conditions

Sulcata Tortoises are well-suited to the UAE climate, especially in spring and autumn. During extreme summer heat, they require shaded, ventilated shelters to avoid overheating.

Outdoor housing (preferred):

• Space: Minimum 3×3 meters for juveniles, larger for adults

• Shelter: Tortoise house or burrow access for temperature regulation

• Substrate: Sandy soil, natural grass, compacted earth (avoid wet, muddy areas)

• Fencing: Solid barriers at least 60 cm high and partially buried to prevent escape

• Temperature:

  • Daytime: 28°C–38°C

  • Night: Keep above 18°C

• Humidity: Low to moderate (30%–50%)

• Lighting: Natural sunlight is ideal; indoor housing requires UVB lighting and a basking lamp

Indoor housing (for hatchlings or during harsh weather):

• Spacious enclosure with dry substrate like coco coir or hay

• UVB lighting for 10–12 hours/day

• Basking spot around 32°C–35°C

• Hide area and shallow water dish

Cleanliness is essential. Remove old food daily and spot-clean waste. Weekly deep cleaning is recommended.

Diet and Feeding

Sulcata Tortoises are strict herbivores and grazers. Their diet must be high in fiber and low in protein to prevent shell deformities and kidney issues.

Recommended diet:

• Grasses and hay (Bermuda, orchard, timothy)

• Edible weeds: Dandelion, clover, plantain

• Leafy greens: Collard greens, mustard greens, turnip greens

• Occasional vegetables: Pumpkin, squash, cactus pads

• Calcium supplement: 2–3 times per week

• Avoid: Fruits, animal protein, high-oxalate vegetables (spinach, kale in excess)

They should always have access to fresh water in a shallow, tip-proof dish.

Lifespan and General Care

Sulcatas can live 50 to 100 years, making them one of the longest-living reptiles kept as pets. This long lifespan requires a serious, long-term commitment—often across generations.

Ongoing care includes:

• Daily feeding and outdoor grazing

• Weekly cleaning and hydration checks

• Annual vet checks for shell growth, parasites, and hydration

• Proper winter shelter and summer shade

• Planning for their increasing size and space requirements

At Sahara Exotics, our Sulcata Tortoises are responsibly bred and raised with attention to diet, hydration, and habitat preparation. We offer support for housing, nutrition, and long-term care for buyers across the UAE.