Raising large species

[steven nix]

Hey guys, I'm researching for a new addition to my family. I've always cared for turtles and am well educated on maintenance. Live in Georgia, with a fenced yard and a whole room dedicated for winters. Looking for some ideas for a large breed other than a sulcata. I was wondering if there is something between the size of a sulcata and redfoots? Maybe 15-25". maybe you could share your experience with them as well, like personality, resilience, maintenance, health.

 

[Jodie]

Leopards. They are a bit shy. Less so as adults. I have 1.2.3 group. They're not as tough as Sulcatas from my experience. They need warm n humid. They don't eat as much grass or hay, but as adults they will eat hay. I have not had issues when they are cared for correctly.

 

[Yvonne G]

Hi Steven and welcome to the Forum!

 

[wellington]

Hello and Welcome. The South African leopards are larger then the Babcocki leopards. I have read they are also a little more out going. I have the Babcocki so couldn't comment on that. The are raised the same as a sulcatas but don't burrow and not destructive like a sulcata can be.
The threads below in my post will give you how to house them when young. Both the leopard and sulcata threads will apply

 

[Gillian M]

Hello and a very warm welcome to the forum!

 

[Tidgy's Dad]

Hello, Steven, and a very warm welcome to Tortoise Forum.
I think Leopards are beautiful, fascinating and seem to fit your size requirements.

 

[teresaf]

Yes leos are great! They are sooo pretty. Here's my boy....

 

[Yvonne G]

My biggest babcock leopard is about 25lbs:

 

[steven nix]

Thanks guys! Leopards are beautiful. I can't wait to get him.