Can you keep a tortoise outside all the time?

cbonza

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May 4, 2021
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Acworth, GA
Hello! We are considering getting our first tortoise and have a great backyard and a large enclosure for a tortoise. We live in the Atlanta area so we have a generally warm, humid climate. Is it possible to keep a tortoise outside only? We were planning to use a raised plant box that is 7 X 16 feet with sides that are about 18 inches high. We will fully enclose it to keep it safe from predators. There is plenty of room for a tortoise house, rocks, water and plants. The enclosure gets a lot of sun but not much shade. We have a backyard where he can free roam that has shade. We realize that we will have to provide heat in the colder months but are not really sure how to heat the tortoise house. We have researched so much that we are thoroughly confused! What kind of tortoise does well outside in our type of climate? We were thinking about a Hermann's or a marginated tortoise. I would love to get a Sulcata but am nervous about how big he will get. Any recommendations or comments on what type of tortoise does well outside and on our proposed enclosure would be greatly appreciated.
 

wellington

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Hatchling do best if housed inside in a closed chamber enclosure. Once they are around 3 years or so depending o species and size they can move outside 24/7 with a heated night box for those cold days abs nights
Most tortoises would do well in your area. Take a look in our species section and read up on different ones to help you decide.
Btw although even though this forums info can sound confusing and overwhelming sometimes, it is the most up to date and correct info out there.
 

Tom

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Hello! We are considering getting our first tortoise and have a great backyard and a large enclosure for a tortoise. We live in the Atlanta area so we have a generally warm, humid climate. Is it possible to keep a tortoise outside only? We were planning to use a raised plant box that is 7 X 16 feet with sides that are about 18 inches high. We will fully enclose it to keep it safe from predators. There is plenty of room for a tortoise house, rocks, water and plants. The enclosure gets a lot of sun but not much shade. We have a backyard where he can free roam that has shade. We realize that we will have to provide heat in the colder months but are not really sure how to heat the tortoise house. We have researched so much that we are thoroughly confused! What kind of tortoise does well outside in our type of climate? We were thinking about a Hermann's or a marginated tortoise. I would love to get a Sulcata but am nervous about how big he will get. Any recommendations or comments on what type of tortoise does well outside and on our proposed enclosure would be greatly appreciated.
Either Testudo species you mentioned with do fine in GA with the correct housing. There is a lot of old incorrect info out in the world about tortoise care. Here is the correct info:

Questions are welcome!
 

Yvonne G

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. . . but if you decide to use the planterbox that has no shade, you'll need to provide shade or the tortoise will overheat.
 

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