Pancake Tortoise vs Sulcata Tortoise
Side-by-side care comparison to help you choose.
| Pancake Tortoise | Sulcata Tortoise | |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Adult size | 6-7 inches | 24-30 inches (61-76 cm); 80-200 lbs |
| Lifespan | 25-50 years | 70+ years |
| Min enclosure | 40 gallon breeder / 36x18x18 inches | Juvenile: 40-gallon tank; Adult: indoor 8x4 ft or outdoor large secure pen |
| Basking temp | 95-100°F | 100-110°F (38-43°C) |
| Humidity | 40-50% | 30-50% |
| UVB | Yes - T5 HO 10.0 or 12% (Ferguson zone 3-4) | Yes - T5 HO 10.0/12% UVB for 12 hours daily |
| Diet | Herbivorous: leafy greens, weeds, and vegetables; supplement with calcium and D3. Feed daily for juveniles, every other day for adults. | High-fiber grass hay, edible weeds, and dark leafy greens; feed daily, avoid protein and fruit. |