Hermann's Tortoise vs Sulcata Tortoise
Side-by-side care comparison to help you choose.
| Hermann's Tortoise | Sulcata Tortoise | |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner | Intermediate |
| Adult size | 6-8 inches | 24-30 inches (61-76 cm); 80-200 lbs |
| Lifespan | 50-100 years | 70+ years |
| Min enclosure | 48x24x12 inches (4x2x1 ft) | Juvenile: 40-gallon tank; Adult: indoor 8x4 ft or outdoor large secure pen |
| Basking temp | 90-95°F | 100-110°F (38-43°C) |
| Humidity | 30-50% | 30-50% |
| UVB | Yes - T5 HO 6% or 5.0, Ferguson zone 2-3 | Yes - T5 HO 10.0/12% UVB for 12 hours daily |
| Diet | Herbivorous: dark leafy greens (dandelion, collard, mustard), weeds, flowers; calcium supplement with D3 2-3 times per week; fruit as occasional treat. | High-fiber grass hay, edible weeds, and dark leafy greens; feed daily, avoid protein and fruit. |