Source: Wikimedia Commons
Sulcata Tortoise
AdvancedCentrochelys sulcata
Third-largest tortoise species, exceeding 70cm. Fast-growing — cute as hatchlings but housing adults is the biggest challenge.
Difficulty
Advanced
Temperature
25〜32℃
Lifespan
50-100 years
Size
50-80cm
Humidity
40〜70%
Diet
Hay and weeds primarily
About
The African spurred tortoise (Centrochelys sulcata), also known as the sulcata tortoise, is the third-largest species of tortoise in the world, native to the Sahel region of Africa from Senegal and Mauritania east to Ethiopia and Sudan. Adults commonly exceed 60–80 cm in carapace length and can weigh over 70 kg. The common name refers to the large, prominent spurs on the hindlegs. This species is the largest mainland tortoise on the African continent. Sulcata tortoises grow rapidly — hatchlings are small and appealing, but adults require extremely large outdoor enclosures, making long-term housing the most significant challenge for keepers. They are herbivorous, feeding primarily on grasses and hay. Lifespan in captivity commonly exceeds 50–70 years, and some individuals may live a century or more.
Basic Info
Origin
Sahel region of Africa, from Senegal to Ethiopia
Lifespan
50-100 years
Size
50-80cm
Temperature
25〜32℃
Humidity
40〜70%
Diet
Hay and weeds primarily
Care Guide
Space
Adults require outdoor enclosure
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Centrochelys sulcata (Miller, 1779)
Synonyms: Geochelone sulcata (Miller, 1779), Testudo calcarata Schneider, 1784, Testudo radiata Gray, 1831, Testudo radiata senegalensis Gray, 1831, Testudo sulcata Miller, 1779
Authority databases: GBIF · Reptile Database
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
CITES 附属書IIIUCN EN · Endangered
Sources: CITES Checklist (Testudinidae spp. Appendix II; 野生個体は商業輸出割当ゼロ) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Sulcata Tortoise Listings
Loading latest listingsFind listings for this species
