African sulcata tortoise

The African sulcata tortoise is an endangered species subject to poaching and illegal trade, posing a moderate risk for pet ownership. Prospective owners must ensure animals are sourced from reputable captive breeders and provide specialized care, including high-fiber diets and specific temperature and UV light requirements, for an animal that can live over 80 years and weigh up to 120 lbs.

• The African sulcata tortoise is an endangered species experiencing wild population declines due to poaching and illegal trade, though legal captive breeding facilities exist.
• Maintaining the species in captivity is challenging due to strict habitat requirements, including temperatures that should not drop below 60 degrees F (ideally 80-90 degrees F), specific humidity levels, and UV light exposure.
• The species has significant longevity and size, potentially living over 80 years and reaching weights of 65-120 lbs (29-54 kg), which may exceed the capabilities of many owners.
• A healthy diet for the tortoise must be grass-based, high-fiber, and low in protein, fat, and sugar; commercial diets are not recommended as an exclusive food source.
• There is a moderate risk regarding legality and conservation, as the species may be subject to international trade controls and various national, state, or local legal protections.

APA

WWF International (n.d.). African sulcata tortoise. https://www.worldwildlife.org/our-work/wildlife/wildlife-crime/responsible-pet-guide/assessed-exotic-species/african-sulcata-tortoise/

Chicago

WWF International. African sulcata tortoise. n.d. https://www.worldwildlife.org/our-work/wildlife/wildlife-crime/responsible-pet-guide/assessed-exotic-species/african-sulcata-tortoise/.

Wikipedia

{{cite report |author=WWF International |title=African sulcata tortoise |url=https://www.worldwildlife.org/our-work/wildlife/wildlife-crime/responsible-pet-guide/assessed-exotic-species/african-sulcata-tortoise/ |access-date=23 October 2026 |via=Climate Insights Directory}}

BibTeX

@techreport{wwfinternationalndafrican, author = {{WWF International}}, title = {{African sulcata tortoise}}, institution = {WWF International}, url = {https://www.worldwildlife.org/our-work/wildlife/wildlife-crime/responsible-pet-guide/assessed-exotic-species/african-sulcata-tortoise/}, urldate = {2026-10-23}, note = {Indexed by Climate Insights Directory} }