Newbie

[ElMo]

Hi I'm new to this forum. I'm looking to purchase my first tortoise and was told a Russian tortoise is a good tortoise for a beginner. Any recommendations on best place to purchase a healthy tortoise? I live in Central California (Kern County).

 

[JoesMum]

Hello and welcome

You're right that Russians are good beginner tortoises.

Before you jump in, please take the time read the following guides which will help you prepare properly and avoid expensive mistakes. They're written by species experts who work hard to correct the misinformation commonly available on the internet and, sadly, perpetuated by many pet stores and even some breeders and vets.

Beginner Mistakes
http://www.tortoiseforum.org/threads/beginner-mistakes.45180/

Russian Tortoise Care Sheet
http://www.tortoiseforum.org/threads/russian-tortoise-care-sheet.80698/

and if you're thinking of getting a young animal
Baby Russian Care Sheet
http://www.tortoiseforum.org/thread...or-other-herbivorous-tortoise-species.107734/

Particular note should be taken of the space requirements and the lighting.

Please don't hesitate to come back with any questions you have regarding the care of your new pet.

 

[wellington]

Hello and Welcome

 

[Yvonne G]

Welcome to the Forum.

Have you considered a desert tortoise? Contact the Kern Chapter of the California Turtle and Tortoise Club and see if they have any tortoises that need a home.

 

[Grandpa Turtle 144]

Hi

 

[Tom]

Hi I'm new to this forum. I'm looking to purchase my first tortoise and was told a Russian tortoise is a good tortoise for a beginner. Any recommendations on best place to purchase a healthy tortoise? I live in Central California (Kern County).

Hello and welcome.

Contact Tyler at http://www.tortoisesupply.com. He always has some in.

Many people here on the forum breed them. I bought some from @Carol S and @kanalomele and both of them get an A+. I would give them an A++ or an A+++, but I think you get the idea with just an A+.

There are lots of other good breeders here too and I would not hesitate to buy from any of them, but I have had personal good experience with these three.

 

[Speedy-1]

Hi and welcome !

 

[TortoiseWarrior]

Hi welcome to the Forum

 

[RedFire]

Welcome. I think hermanns and Greeks are also easy for the beginners.

 

[kanalomele]

Thanks for the tag @Tom! I lived in Kern county myself for awhile ElMo. You may want to check in with the Porterville rescue and see if they have any available torts. As mentioned by others Russians are great for beginners. I have several available at a great price in the sale section or feel free to email me at the rescue. [email protected]