Caring for Your Indian Star Tortoise

Caring for
Your Indian
Star Tortoise
Scientific Name: Geochelone elegans
Native to: India, Sri lanka
Maximum Length: 6-8 inches
Life Span: 30+ years
characteristics:
Indian stars are one of the most striking tortoises found on the market. Their shell carapaces elevate to
form a stunning, geometric motif on their backs. As if their pure beauty wasn’t enough, these tortoises are
exceptionally gentle and would make a charming addition to anyone’s home. The Indian star tortoise is a
beautiful species of tortoise found in dry areas and scrub forest in India and Sri Lanka. Renowned for its
unique markings, this is one of the most sought after Tortoises on the market today.
care tips:
Enclosure: For a pair of tortoises an enclosure of 3 x 3 is the minimum requirement.
Substrate: Choose a substrate such as grass clippings, peat moss, or potting soil.
Habitat: Provide a few places for your tortoise to hide. Be sure to provide plenty of space for your tortoise,
including a basking area.
Temperature and Lighting: Provide UVB lighting, a basking area of 90 degrees and use a heating pad to
create a temperature gradient of 75F to 90F degrees. Place the basking light on one end of the tank and the
other end should be kept as a cooler area.
Food and Water: An Indian Star tortoise’s diet should consist of a mix of grasses, weeds, and other fiber rich
greens such as mixed grasses, dark greens, weeds, coarse leaves, and succulents. Provide a shallow dish of
water large enough for the tortoise to soak. Clean the water dish regularly. Moisture levels should be low
when the temperature is low, and moisture levels may rise when temperatures are high.