Hobbies And Interests
Size, Lifespan and Breeding
Female Indian Star tortoises typically grow to seven or eight inches in length and are larger than the male, which is usually between five and six inches long. Some of the species originating in Sri Lanka grow even larger, and some of these females are as much as 15 inches long. Tortoises are known for longevity and the lifespan of this species is anything from 30 to 80 years. Star Indian tortoises bred in captivity are the only ones available for sale as it is illegal to sell tortoises caught in the wild.
Feeding
The tortoises are herbivores and like a variety of plants, fruits and grasses. They need a high-fiber diet that is calcium-rich. Owners can feed them collard and turnip greens, as well as dandelion leaves. They also like carrots, zucchini, varieties of squash, peppers and mushrooms. Fruit should form only a small proportion of the diet, and favorites are apples, bananas, melons, grapes and tomatoes. The tortoises will drink water from a small dish, which should be cleaned and replenished frequently.
Living Conditions
Adult tortoises prefer living outdoors, but in cold climates they need to be indoors. An outdoor pen, six feet square and one foot high, is large enough for up to four tortoises. The pen should contain grasses and shrubs that provide shelter and food, and an exposed area for basking in the sun. A tank lined with grasses and soils is suitable for indoor tortoises. A box lined with newspaper is sufficient for tortoises that only spend part of the time indoors.
Health
Tortoises are susceptible to respiratory problems, especially if they get cold. Symptoms include breathing difficulties, a runny nose, lethargy and loss of appetite. Treatment includes increasing the temperature in the tortoise's living space, and keeping the area dry. However, owners should also soak the tortoise in water to keep it hydrated and make sure it has plenty of water to drink. If the tortoise doesn't respond to these steps, take it to a vet who might prescribe antibiotics. It is important to treat a tortoise's respiratory problems aggressively as it could develop pneumonia.