Jacqui said:If your wanting to start with a hatchling, keep in mind you will need to build a really good outside enclosure to keep them safe, along with one inside. I didn't mention the Greek, Russian, or Hermanns because I thought you wanted medium size, but they are great beginners tortoises. Leopards seem to be harder for many, so I would personally would consider it not as easy as the Redfoot.
You are wise to take your time. This is a life time (and often beyond) commitment.
Well I haven't really settled on one particular size for sure at this point. I figured medium as my yard can easily sustain one. Thing is I think my yard could also sustain a larger tort just not one with the destructive tendencies of the sulcata.
And yes if I do end up with a hatchling I understand they are quite vulnerable to potential predatory critters and their exterior enclosure would have to be built to protect them more so than an older one.
jaizei said:Personally, I decided against Redfoots because I didn't think it would be easy to provide them with a proper enclosure outside in Central Texas. I think it would be an uphill battle trying to provide (what I think is) adequate vegetation and shade. But DixieParadise keeps some in Georgetown so it can be done if you want to put in the effort.
I can see that being an obstacle and definitely something to take into consideration while making my choice.