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Sheets |
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| Description: |
Star Tortoises have
a yellow or tan head. Females are much larger than males and
have a shell which is much broader. |
| Lifespan: |
Up to 80 years |
| Estimated Size: |
Up to 12" |
| Natural Location: |
India |
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The
best way to feed your Star Tortoise is to allow it long periods
of grazzing time. It will happily forage around your yard
for several hours a day. If you are going to allow your tortoise
to graze in your yard you will not be able to use any sort
of pesticides on your lawn or in your garden. Greens such
as turnips and collards can be fed a couple of times per week.
In addition, carrots, potatos and squash can also be offered,
although this should not be done more than once per week.
Some fruits such as apples, peaches, bananas and strawberries
work well in smaller quantities to offer a variety in the
diet of your Star Tortoise. |
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The
optimal temperature for Star Tortoises is between 75 degrees
F and 85 degrees F during the day and between 75 degrees F
and 78 degrees F at night.
Since Star Tortoises are not supposed to hibernate
in the winter, you must provide them with a warm enough temperature
that they do not attempt to do so. In the winter ensure that
the daytime temperature does not dip below 70 degrees F during
the day. A drop in nightime temperature is acceptable as long
as it is not more than about 5 degrees F. |
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If their
enclosure is too damp it can easily lead to skin infections
in Star Tortoises as they are not adapted for wet conditions.
Although Star Tortoises are not that large,
they require a fair bit of room to graze as they like to move
around a fair bit. Keeping your Star Tortoise outside will
provide it with plenty of room to move about.
Star Tortoises are not known for their digging
capabilities however you should still ensure that their enclosure
does not permit escape. |
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