Breed Suggestions Needed! Want to add a new member to our family by Christmas

[sissysnakes]

I am currently doing research on different tortoise breeds and I was hoping you'all might be able to give me some breed suggestions. I am looking for something on the smaller side 5-15 inches, which could potentially do well with a indoor and/or outdoor enclosure in the southern states. For an example of what we like, we love the pattern on the Sulcata tortoise shell but feel that they may be a little bigger then is preferable for us. I would really appreciate any help you could give identifying some species which might fit the bill. Thanks!!

[Sammiebob]

Russian tortoises stay in the small end of your range, females reaching up to 8 inches long. Red footed tortoises are on the bigger side, I'm not sure how big they get but I would guess around basketball size or a little bit longer. A specks hingeback is also a great size tort, getting a bit bigger than Russians but they have the same care.

[sissysnakes]

Thanks! a Russian may be a good choice, though I'm also looking at Golden Greek tortoise.

[sissysnakes]

Do you know of any reputable breeders I might check out?

[Sammiebob]

Where are you located? Doug Dix at Deer fern farms has greats torts, I would also check the classifieds of fauna and see if anyone has any over there. Craigslist is also a great way to rescue animals.

[Sammiebob]

Oh and yes I forgot about Greeks. They are also great, as well as Herman's.

[sissysnakes]

Thanks so much, I'll check them out!