Sulcata Tortoise
Centrochelys sulcata
African spurred tortoise — the third largest tortoise species. Strict high-fiber grazer; diet should be 80%+ grass/hay. No brumation. Requires very low humidity, hot basking spot. Adult size up to 100+ lbs. Very long lived.
Setting up for a Sulcata Tortoise?
Vetted UVB, substrate, food, and supplement picks in one place.
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Safe to feed(12)
Broadleaf Plantain
Plantago major
Offer as part of varied salad mix.
Mulberry Leaves
Morus sp.
Offer 2–3 times per week.
Clover
Trifolium sp.
Offer as part of a mixed grazing area.
Rose Petals
Rosa sp.
Occasional treat. Pesticide-free only.
Endive
Cichorium endivia
Supplement to grass — a few times per week.
Timothy Hay
Phleum pratense
Staple — unrestricted access. Always available.
Opuntia Cactus Pads
Opuntia ficus-indica
Offer 2–3 times per week.
Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon
Staple — graze freely in outdoor enclosures.
Orchard Grass Hay
Dactylis glomerata
Staple — mix with timothy hay for variety.
Grape Leaves
Vitis vinifera
Offer 1–2 times per week. Leaves only.
Dandelion Greens
Taraxacum officinale
Offer 3–4 times per week as a supplement to hay.
Hibiscus Flowers
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
A few flowers 1–2 times per week.
Feed with caution(6)
Kale
Brassica oleracea var. acephala
Once per week maximum, very small amount. Not a staple.
Collard Greens
Brassica oleracea var. viridis
1–2 times per week, small portion alongside hay.
Spinach
Spinacia oleracea
Avoid or absolute maximum once per month, tiny amount.
Broccoli
Brassica oleracea var. italica
Once per week maximum, small amount.
Watermelon
Citrullus lanatus
Avoid or once monthly maximum.
Mustard Greens
Brassica juncea
1–2 times per week, small amount.