Some tortoise help please

So my kids would really love to have a tortoise around (so would I but it is easier to sell the wife on it if I throw the kids in the conversation) I have a couple questions I would appreciate some help with.

I am thinking a leopard or Russian tortoise

1.) I have a large fanced off area outside about 14'x14' that used to be a garden, I would plant some grass in it maybe dig a small pond for water and provide a shelter. Does this seem ok?

2.) I live in Northern Illinois so we only have about 5 months out of the year that he could be outside, what do you need for a toroise inside for the winter months especially when they are older and large/heavy creatures?

I can keep reading about them all day long but I would really like to hear from people that own them.

Thanks for any help

Corey

I keep my sulcata in a 8'x4' enclosure in the winter months.

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Originally Posted by likebull1

I keep my sulcata in a 8'x4' enclosure in the winter months.

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Could you post some pictures of it if you get a chance please?

Im new to torts as well, but i thought i would share with you anyway. Not sure if you have looked into red foots but, mine is awesome! Tons of personality:gj:

http://www.ball-pythons.net/forums/s...ad.php?t=93866

Actually showing your picture to the kids is what started this whole thing:

I am between redfoots, Hermans and Russian; Hermans sound really easy to care for outdoors.

I need to do some more research on the redfoots but I love their look.

I would go with Redfoots...especially if it is for your kids.


Nothing like bright red spots on a tortoise to impress the kids! LOL


I really like our redfoot, they have tons of personalitly. As far as outdoors. I would maybe consider some heat inside the hide.

I use the small dogloo houses and just put a CHE inside.

Thanks Pat, I am going to go do some research on them tonight.

Who are reputable tortoise breeders?

http://www.bluebeastreptile.com/

They produce some amazing Cherry Head Redfoots

http://www.albinonile.com/

Ben Siegel also has some good lookers, but I am not sure if he Imports or CB's

Thanks again, would be nice to have a tortoise roaming the yard.

Now for a big sign that says "Beware of Tortoise" :D

Russians are very hardy and like to cruise around and arent so shy like other torts. They dont get so big either, easy to make inside digs.

Here is a pic of mine cruising around
http://i177.photobucket.com/albums/w...es/GoStoly.jpg