Turtles are one of the easiest reptiles to find that can inspire curiosity and fascination in reptile keepers both young and old. Whether it’s their slow but determined nature or the built-in defense/home they carry on their backs, tortoises find their way into our homes and hearts. We are going to take a look at the top five turtles for sale on the market today and some of the reasons why they are there.
The African Spurred Tortoise
African spurred tortoises, also known as sulcade tortoises, are one of the most commonly kept pet tortoises. They are one of the medium to large sized tortoises that are easy to keep and fairly inexpensive to purchase. Adult males will reach a very impressive fifty to eighty pound size and for keepers who have access to an enclosed plot of land they can make a very impressive pet. They are prairie tortoises, so a diet of hay and vegetation along with a mix of prepared tortoise food will keep them happy and healthy for years.
red footed tortoise
Red feet are one of the more exotic looking medium sized tortoises due to their name, red scaled legs and head, as well as a beautifully colored shell that is usually black and yellow. They are also one of the least expensive turtles on the market, which along with their looks makes them a highly sought after reptile pet. They are native to northern South America and live on the edges of forests where they feed on a varied diet of vegetables, fruits, small insects, eggs, and carrion. In captivity, they can be kept indoors in a large turtle enclosure or outdoors on a shady plot of land. Red-footed tortoises and their close relative, the yellow-footed tortoise, are a big part of the reptile experience.
the russian tortoise
Russian tortoises are one of the smallest tortoises found in the wild, living in the arid lowland mountainous regions of Pakistan throughout Southeast Asia. These hardy creatures can handle a wide range of temperatures and can survive on a steady diet of vegetation, hay, and pre-mixed turtle food. Due to their ability to handle harsh weather, they can adapt to most indoor areas and also acclimate to humidity. Russian tortoises rarely exceed eight or ten inches in length, making them very likely candidates for an indoor pet tortoise.
mediterranean tortoises
Mediterranean countries are home to a number of small, beautifully patterned pet turtles. These include Greek tortoises, Herman’s tortoises, and margined tortoises. These lively little creatures have more specific temperature and humidity requirements than Russian tortoises, but they are much more attractive and sought after in many ways. The price reflects this and these small size turtles are in the next cost bracket to obtain.
the star turtles
Star tortoises are small-sized tortoises that get their name from the brightly colored yellow and black shells that are covered with multifaceted star-shaped designs. They come from various countries including India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar and Burma. These beautiful animals are highly sought after by keepers in the United States, as well as in China and Japan, which is why they are one of the most expensive pet tortoises on the market.
