travel box for tortoise

How to Transport a Tortoise (A Complete Guide)

You might need to transport a tortoise for a variety of different reasons, whether it’s bringing them to the vet or shipping one across the country it’s vital you know how to safely do it so nothing bad happens to the tortoise. It’s not as simple as transporting a dog as there are a few precautions you need to take.

How to transport a tortoise? Use a container that the tortoise can’t see through as they’ll become stressed if they can see into the distance with nothing breaking their line of sight. The container should be big enough for the tortoise to turn around and the sides high enough so the tortoise isn’t able to place its legs on top of it.

In this article, I’ll cover how to transport a tortoise in a car, or plane, and everything else you need to know about transporting a tortoise!

What Is the Best Way to Transport a Tortoise?

The best way to transport a tortoise is the way that ensures the tortoise is safe and the journey as a whole is completely stress-free. There are a few ways to go about transporting a tortoise and each different person has their own method. Regardless of the person, there are a few things everyone should focus on when transporting a tortoise:

Most people will use either a small box or a plastic tub to transport their tortoise in. The size of the container is not as important as how you will be transporting your tortoise in it.

• If you are using a small box, make sure that there is enough space for your tortoise to move around comfortably.
• If you are using a plastic tub, make sure that the sides of the tub are high enough for your tortoise to be able to climb onto them. The reason I’m stressing this is because it is very important that your tortoise does not get stressed out during transport. Stress can be fatal to a tortoise.
• The container that you transport your tortoise in should be padded with newspaper and there should also be a towel or some other soft material on the bottom of the container.
• It is a good idea to put a small amount of water in the bottom of the container to keep the tortoise hydrated while traveling.
• I also recommend that you put some food in the container so that your tortoise has something to eat while traveling.
• The temperature of the container is also very important. It should be kept at about 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius). If it is too warm, your tortoise will dehydrate and if it is too cold, it will lose body heat.

How Do You Travel With a Tortoise in The Car?

If you’re thinking about taking your pet tortoise on a road trip, there are a few things you need to do to make sure your pet is comfortable and secure.

Here are a few tips on how to travel with a tortoise in the car:

• First, consider where you’ll put your tortoise during the drive . The floors of the front or back seats are both good options, as long as the temperature stays cool and consistent.
• Second, you’ll need a travel box that is the right size for your tortoise . The box should be big enough for your tortoise to stretch its legs, but not too big that it can’t be securely fastened in the car. You’ll also want to line the bottom of the box with the right substrate. Newspaper strips or padding will work well.
• Third, for long trips, make sure your tortoise has access to food and water . You may want to bring along some of their favorite vegetables or fruits, cut them up into small pieces, and also ensure the tortoise won’t get dehydrated.
• Finally, make sure the travel box is well-ventilated . Your tortoise should be able to breathe well during the car ride, so a carrier box with holes or mesh sides is ideal. You should never leave your tortoise in a parked vehicle.

How Do You Pack a Tortoise for Travel?

Packing a tortoise for travel may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• First, you’ll need a sturdy container for your tortoise that they cannot see through.
• The container should have a loose-fitting lid, as it will allow for ventilation and sides that are high enough to keep the tortoise from escaping.
• Line the bottom of the container with layers of folded newspaper to provide insulation and cushioning.
• Finally, it’s always a good idea to also pack a first-aid kit for your tortoise.

How Do You Transport a Tortoise On a Plane?

Tortoises are not specifically mentioned in any rules for transporting animals on planes. However, they must be carried in a compliant carrier box that is well-ventilated and waterproof. You should check with the airline company if tortoises are allowed inside the cabin. If allowed, the carrier box should be small enough to fit under the seat.

Here are a few tips for transporting a tortoise on a plane:

• Make sure your tortoise is healthy and up-to-date on all vaccinations before travel . This is important not just for your pet’s health, but also to make sure they won’t be rejected at the airport.
• Get a health certificate from your vet stating that your tortoise is fit to travel. This certificate will likely be required by the airline.
• Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policies for transporting animals.

Can You Bring a Tortoise On Holiday?

If you’re thinking to bring your tortoise on holiday with you, there are a few things you need to consider.

First, tortoises are not fond of change and may become stressed if their routine is disrupted.

Practically though, you can bring a tortoise on holiday with you. However, it is important to consider the unnecessary stress that continuous travel can have on your pet. It may be better to ask a friend or family member to pet sit while you’re away. If that’s not possible, there are professional pet sitters who can take care of your tortoise while you’re away.

Tortoises are desert animals and therefore require warm weather and sunny conditions. If you’re going to be staying in a cold or wet place, your tortoise will not be able to survive.

Additionally, tortoises need a large space to roam around and explore. A small hotel room is not going to be suitable for them.

Is It Safe to Travel with a Tortoise?

If the tortoise is healthy and the journey is not too long or stressful, then traveling with a tortoise is generally safe.

But first and foremost, it is important to consider the health and well-being of the tortoise in question. If the tortoise is sick or injured, travel may not be advisable.

Additionally, the tortoise’s species and age will affect its health and ability to withstand travel stress. The mode of transportation (car, plane, etc.) and the length of the journey are also important considerations.

Transporting a Tortoise – Final Thoughts

Following the guidelines and steps mentioned in this post will ensure that your tortoise has a comfortable and safe journey. By taking the time to research the best method for your tortoise and preparing ahead of time, you can avoid any stressful situations for you or your pet.

Related Posts:

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The 3 Best Tortoise Enclosures of 2024

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

What to Look for in Tortoise Enclosures

Why trust the spruce pets.

The Spruce Pets / Amelia Manley

With a lifespan ranging from 80 to 150 years, a tortoise pet can be a lifelong commitment, so it's important to find an enclosure that keeps them safe and happy. Whether you’ve got a teeny Egyptian tortoise or a bulkier Leopard Tortoise, the best enclosure will be one that can provide for their wellbeing long term.

“Tortoises are smart, have great personalities, are funny, and are survivors,” CEO of Tortoiseland Kevin Proulx told The Spruce Pets. “Give them room, give them space, and give them tons of sunlight.”

For both indoor tortoises our favorite enclosure is the Aivituvin Wooden Tortoise House. It has enough room to keep smaller reptiles happy while maintaining their safety. For an outdoor companion, it's best to use wire or mesh netting, similar to what’s found in the Tortoise House Habitat.

Best Overall

Aivituvin wooden tortoise house.

Can work indoors or outdoor

Two separate compartments with individual lids

Highly adjustable lamp holder

Plastic bottom for easy cleaning

Solid wood, for more resistance to damp than plywood

Won't work for larger tortoises

Some assembly required

A good tortoise enclosure needs to be able to protect your companion while giving them enough room to move around. This wooden house from Aivituvin gives you a solid foundation that’s easy to fill with dirt or bedding without leaks. The solid wood exterior is combined with a waterproof, plastic bottom, making it easy to wipe up messes. The Aivituvin Tortoise House is divided into two sections, separated by a 8.3-inch square door: a larger “public” compartment with acrylic viewing panels and a screen top, and an adjacent, fully-enclosed compartment where your turtle can find darkness and privacy. Each compartment has a separate latch and prop, so you can open either compartment separately, and keep it open for airing or cleaning.

Heat sources are crucial to any tortoise enclosure, and this house has an adjustable lamp holder that extends from 30.3 to 39 inches high and from 13 to 21.1 inches out. Combine that with the lamp holder’s 360 degree rotation, and you have enough adjustability to place light wherever your tortoise needs it most.

Though it's appropriate for outdoor or indoor use, its relatively small size and lamp configuration inclines us to recommend it more for indoor use. Its primary limitation is its size, which is only appropriate for some tortoise species, or as a starter enclosure for a juvenile tortoise. 

The Aivituvin Wooden Tortoise House is also available in an elevated configuration with legs . It requires some assembly after purchase, with pre-drilled holes.

Dimensions: 38.1 x 22.4 x 39 inches | Materials: Wood, acrylic, metal | Included Accessories: Lamp holder

Best Overall, Outdoor

Rockever wooden tortoise habitat.

Easy to clean

Lots of sunlight

Enclosed area with door

Only appropriate for small or medium-sized tortoises

Digging tortoises will need a bottom or other method to prevent escape

The Tortoise House Habitat enclosure is perfect for many types of smaller or medium-sized tortoises, like leopard or red foot tortoises. The wire top is divided into three panels, which can be partially or fully opened for easy access to the interior. 

At 49 by 36 inches, the Tortoise House Habitat provides plenty of open space for them to bask in the sun, with a 13 by 36-inch interior that provides secure privacy. While the door to the interior space can be closed, we do wish the wire window could be sealed as well, to provide your turtle as much darkness as possible.

The enclosure does require some assembly, though the tools and instructions do come in the box. Overall, it's a great enclosure for outdoor tortoise aficionados, looking for a place that will give them some comfort while they leave their shelled friend outside. Plus, it’s also available in a smaller size that’s suitable for indoor or outdoor use.

The main downside to the Tortoise House Habitat is that it doesn’t have a floor, which makes it easy to escape, particularly for burrowing tortoise species.

Dimensions: 49 x 36 x 14 inches (large), 36 x 24 x 14 (small) | Materials: Fir Wood

Best Heating

Zoo med reptitherm habitat heater.

Automatically turns off to prevent overheating

18-inch square useful for many tortoise sizes

Easy to set up

Water resistant

LED indicator lets you know when the heater is on

No digital thermostat

A tortoise companion needs to have a good heating pad or lamp since these cold-blooded creatures can’t regulate their internal temperature. Zoo Med’s heating pad gives any tortoise who can fit on an 18 by 18-inch square a chance to relax and heat up at the same time. Made with water resistant plastic, it includes a metal-protected cord to prevent chewing. Reaching a maximum of 119 degrees, it comes with mounting rails so it can be easily installed on the floor or side of the enclosure.

Dimensions: 18 x 18 inches | Materials: Polyethylene plastic | Included Accessories: Cord, automatic thermostat, indicator LED

Best Water Dish

Omem luminous reptile food bowl.

Simple to set up

Only for small tortoises

Tortoises need a place where they can get a nice drink or a nice spot to eat at. Giving them a bowl that they can easily access without you having to worry about a mess is a must. With its resin makeup and availability in multiple colors, you should give the OMEM food bowl a shot.

Even if tortoises don’t drink too much, it's smart to keep a bowl inside just to add a little bit of humidity to the overall heat. This bowl, with its unique shape that isn’t deep, allows for easy evaporation while giving even the smallest tortoise a chance to catch a drink.

Dimensions: 14 x 9 x 1 inches | Materials: Resin

Best Fencing

Lan jia hardware cloth.

Galvanized after welding to prevent rust

Unlimited customization

Half-inch openings to keep turtles in and predators out

Requires framing and other custom assembly

Since many of the enclosures sold by major retailers are too small for larger tortoise species, many people opt to build their own enclosures, typically using wire. But while standard chicken wire can work to keep your tortoise hemmed in, its large, hexagonal openings are less effective at repelling predators. Instead, consider a hardware cloth, like this highly-rated fencing from Lan Jia. Hardware cloth has square instead of hexagonal openings, and they’re really narrow, so raccoons or other opportunistic predators can’t reach through. 

You can use hardware cloth in combination with a wood or PVC frame to build a custom outdoor enclosure for your tortoise. It can also be used to build a top to an existing enclosure, or even buried along the perimeter of your enclosure to keep your tortoise from burrowing out.

Lan Jia Hardware Cloth is galvanized after welding for a full seal that prevents the steel wire from rusting. It’s square openings are each a half-inch across, which offers maximum protection while still giving your tortoise full visibility of their surroundings. The 19 gauge wire is also sturdy enough (the lower the gauge number, the thicker the wire) that your tortoise shouldn’t be able to bend it.

Dimensions: 24-inch height, variable length | Materials: Galvanized steel wire

Best for Hatchlings

Pawhut wooden tortoise house.

Can hold a couple of clutches

Offers privacy

No lamp stand

Having newborn tortoises can be a blessing and a curse since now you have to figure out how to take care of them. Having enough space for them to wander without getting hurt is a must, which is why the PawHut enclosure is a great choice. Made of wood, it offers two different sections to offer some privacy and a wire top that allows for a heating lamp to shine through. 

If you’d prefer not to splurge on a big cage, just use a plastic container that’s around two feet long and 15 inches deep. And make sure to have a heating lamp attached to a digital thermostat since hatchlings are more susceptible to heat differences.

Dimensions: 37 x 24.75 x 13 inches | Materials: Pine, plywood  

Final Verdict

Our favorite tortoise enclosure for indoor use is the Aivituvin Wooden Tortoise House , while we like the Tortoise House Habitat for more open, airy, outdoor set-ups. Both enclosures offer private space and easy access to the interior.

To keep your tortoise, you’ll want them to be kept in a closed-off enclosure. Using chicken wire, mesh, or plastic allows you to get inside their area without fear of predators getting in. The biggest danger to tortoises is their care, according to Proulx most tortoises don’t live past a year. So it's important to make sure that their environment is properly heated, cleaned, and protected. 

Space Layout

Every tortoise should have “an area where the animal can be completely sheltered and can escape into and hide and be safe just like any animal would want to do,” Tortoiseland’s Kevin Proulx told The Spruce Pets. Having two different areas—one enclosed and one open—provides your tortoise with both room to soak up heat and an interior space where they can find privacy and safety.. It’s important to put their food and water dishes out in the open so you can see and keep track. Larger tortoises need more space when compared to their smaller brethren. 

That varies, depending on the tortoise species and age, but generally tortoise enclosures should be no smaller than three feet by four feet. 

Yes, tortoises are cold-blooded and need an outside heat source to maintain their internal body temperature. 

Steven Asarch is a small pets expert, who has analyzed testing data, tested products at home, and provided recommendations for a wide range of pet products, cat litter disposal systems and the best ferret cages . He also assembled an exhaustive list of the essentials you should have before welcoming a new kitten into your home .

To learn the best options for tortoises, he spoke to Kevin Proulx, the CEO of the Tortoiseland charity. With his expertise, he figured out the best enclosures, prioritizing durability, price, and practicality. 

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How To Choose The Best Tortoise Enclosure (Indoor & Outdoor)

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When it comes to a tortoise enclosure it’s really circumstantial, because it depends on the type of tortoise that you own and if it’s an adult or a baby tortoise.

Many tortoise species have different habitat needs, so that means various size enclosures.

Knowing the type of species and gender of your tortoise will tell you whether you need a big or small tortoise enclosure

Deciding where you want the tortoise enclosure to be, indoor or outdoor is also an important factor when choosing the best tortoise enclosure.

Some species of tortoises like Sulcata tortoise, tend to do better outside because they do grow quite a lot, and other species like Russian tortoises do fairly well inside too.

The Best Tortoise Enclosure For Indoors

Our Top Pick

Zoo Med Wood Tortoise House

Size: 37″ x 25″ x 13″ | Weight: 26 pounds | Includes Kit: No |  Material: Wood

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

The  Zoo Med Tortoise House  is specifically designed for a tortoise having a place to call his home and adds privacy plus is preferred by professional tortoise keepers.

Even though this is only suitable for a smaller species of tortoises, you have the option to buy two of these tortoise houses and combine them by removing the detachable wall that slides up.

It can also be used outdoors when it’s not too cold outside to provide natural sunlight and beneficial UVB.

Features separate weatherproof sleeping area and lockable wire safety cover.

• Comes with a wood siding that provides privacy
• Designed specifically for a tortoise
• Has the option to combine 2 cages into 1
• Easy to assemble
• Not suitable for the larger types of tortoises

RELATED READ: How To Care For A Tortoise

The Best Tortoise Enclosure For Outdoors

New Age Pet Ecoplex Sonoran Tortoise House Pen

Size: 21.82″ x 24.02″ x 13.35″ | Weight: 8.38 Pounds

This New Age Pet Ecoplex Sonoran Tortoise House Pen provides your tortoise with extra room to wander around and enjoy the comforting warmth of the sun.

It’s crafted from NeveRust stainless steel wire and Ecoplex, a proprietary composite blend of reclaimed wood fiber byproducts and recycled polymers, creating a moisture-resistant material that’s durable, doesn’t retain odor, and is easy to clean.

• Provides your tortoise with enough room to roam around and enjoy the sunshine, all while keeping him secure
• Easy to assemble and no tools required
• It may be used as a stand-alone pen or with the New Age Pet ECOFLEX Sonoran Tortoise Reptile House (sold separately)
• Not suited for large types of tortoises

Things To Consider When Buying a Tortoise Enclosure

There are many choices to be made from today’s market.

From the simple ones to the ones that can get over complicated.

So getting to know the most important elements before buying your next tortoise enclosure, will take you a step further as a tortoise keeper.

Different Habitats for Different Tortoise Species

Tortoise enclosures vary hugely in size, shape, and materials and many people will ask themselves “Do I need a terrarium?” or “Should I build a tortoise table?” 

And my honest opinion is that there is no real blueprint when it comes to housing a tortoise.

They all serve the same purpose, and that is to keep your tortoise safe, provide healthy habitat and shelter them during nasty weather.

1. Terrariums and Vivariums 

If you are looking to buy a glass enclosure, you need to figure out a way so that they can’t see through it.

Tortoises generally don’t grasp the concept of a clear barrier since none exists for them in nature, so when they see something they will spend their time pacing the glass, trying to go through it.

I suggest that if you fancy buying a tortoise glass enclosure, you will need to create a visual barrier on the sides.

You can either leave the front panel visible so you can at least see the turtle or if the enclosure sits on something that’s not too tall, you can have the top panel opened and cover all sides.

Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium

Size: 36″ x 18″ x 24″ | Weight: 57.5 pounds | Includes Kit: No |  Material: Glass

• A really big terrarium enclosure that the tortoise cannot outgrow it
• The sliding doors come with suction cups that can be used as handles
• Very easy to assemble and disassemble if no sand is involved
• This terrarium is very high quality with dual sliding front glass panels and 2 removable top screens
• Can be a bit costly if you are on a budget

2. Tortoise House

Small tortoise houses are excellent if you just have 1 small to a medium-sized tortoise. 

Although they provide shelter they aren’t large enough for your tortoise to roam a lot and you will need to accommodate him outdoors from time to time.

New Age Pet Ecoplex Sonoran Tortoise House

Size: 36.03″ x 24.02″ x 13.51″ | Weight: 38 pounds | Includes Kit: No

• Crafted from ECOFLEX, a recycled plastic-wood polymer composite material that’s non-toxic, moisture-resistant, and won’t warp, crack or split when maintained properly
• Can accommodate most UV and heat lamp set-ups
• There is an expandable, coordinating pen available (sold separately)
• Not suitable for large species of tortoise

3. An open-topped tortoise table

A tortoise table is the best form of housing you can provide for your tortoise indoors, as it has an open-top that allows for good airflow and plenty of ground area for exercise. 

Purpose-built tortoise tables can be purchased, but they can also easily be homemade. 

An old bookcase turned on its back with the shelves removed, wardrobes, and large drawers, all of which can make a perfect home for your tortoise.

VINGLI Heavy Duty Raised Garden Bed

Size: 48.5″x22.5″x30″ | Weight: 37 Pounds

• Stable, durable, and thick
• Pinewood with transparent anti-corrosion paint
• No need to bend down

4. Greenhouse

Greenhouses are very popular with keepers who have many tortoises as they provide a bright environment

You may already have one in your yard that could be used as a tortoise enclosure with just a few adjustments.

During the warmer periods, please remember that greenhouses heat up fast so you will need to leave the door open for ventilation and prevent them from over-heating which can be fatal for small tortoises.

Having windows for the greenhouse will spare you of this problem.

Quictent Portable Cloche Mini Greenhouse

Size: 71″ x36″ x 36″ | Weight: 7 Pounds

• Has large zipper doors
• Good sized portable mini greenhouse
• Can overheat fast

5. Cold frames

For small tortoises, a cold frame is another ideal solution. 

They work well if placed on a course of bricks, leaving a brick out to use as a doorway for the tortoises to access their enclosure. 

Natural predators are always a threat, so make sure your greenhouse/cold frame is securely closed during the night to keep your tortoises safe. 

Gardman 7650 Large Wooden Cold Frame

Size: 35″ x 31″ x 35″ | Weight: 16 Pounds

• Hinged lids stay open with a simple locking mechanism
• The design allows easy access from either side
• Can be a bit to small for large sized tortoises

6. Raised Garden

A raised garden can also be easily and cheaply adapted to tortoise enclosures safely and securely. 

You may need an additional wire mesh cover at the top to prevent natural predation, and also a safe type of material so that it won’t get overheated in the natural sunlight.

Best Choice Products 96x24x10in Outdoor Wooden Raised Garden

Size: 96″ x 24″ x 10″ | Weight: 25.6 Pounds

• Chemical-free
• Needs a bit of work setting out the entire enclosure

7. Plastic Tubs

Plastic tubs can make for a good tortoise enclosure as they are generally good for their structural construction that resists weathering and cracking for long use.

Even though this might seem to some like an unusual housing idea, it can easily house a tortoise and give him enough space for him to feel happy.

The tubs can also be easily moved in case you change your mind about their location.

Works excellent for tortoises in general since they are pliable with plenty of space even with their basking area.

Rubbermaid Commercial Structural Foam Stock Tank

Size: 51-2/3″ x 31″ x 12″ | Weight: 10.7 Kilograms

• Five sizes to fit all your watering needs; from 50 gallons up to 300 gallons
• Seamless construction for outstanding durability
• Weather-resistant
• Suitable for large species of tortoise

The material of the Tortoise Enclosure

If you are interested in buying wood made tortoise enclosure you should also be aware of the type of wood that it’s made from and if it’s toxic or not.

Essentially you should avoid using any type of cedar or pine wood as they are toxic for your turtle pet.

Cedar, which is the most commonly used in these types of products, gives off fumes that repel bugs and these same fumes are toxic in a closed space 24/7, whether it would hurt your tortoise in an open-air outdoor pen is questionable, but I wouldn’t take the risk.

Housing Tortoises Outdoors

The catchphrase says it all “The bigger, the better” , and that applies really well for any type of tortoise.

Some people say that tortoises are easy to keep indoors, while others feel very strongly that tortoises are just plain not suitable indoor pets because of their housing needs.

I believe that tortoises should spend as much time as possible outside, and when indoors, every effort should be made to provide the sort of housing they need, making this not a cheap option.

Some of the indoor enclosures on the market are not the best option because most of them are just too small and that’s not good for a tortoise.

So many times people want to know the minimum size for their tortoise enclosure but they should be asking themselves instead what is the maximum size.

By the time people finish putting all the accessories in a typical indoor tortoise enclosure, there is hardly any room left for them.

Tortoises need lots of room to roam and explore and if you happen to live in a warm area with a calm climate you should have the tortoise placed into an outdoor enclosure.

After looking at various tortoise enclosures, I noticed that there aren’t that many enclosures that are specifically made for tortoises, and if there are any, they don’t provide enough space and flexibility.

Usually, tortoises like to burrow, so you can add a wire mesh below the ground level of the barrier to keep your tortoise protected.

People will start resorting to DIY tortoise enclosure guides but not everybody has the right tools and time to build such enclosures.

Setting Up The Tortoise Enclosure

Zoo Med Habba Hut, Giant

Size: 11″ x 9.5″ x 5.5″ | Material: Wood

Adding a Basking Area

There are many different types of heating when it comes to heating your tortoise enclosure and these include the heating mat, ceramic heater, and light bulbs.

An ideal temperature for the tortoise when he is basking is somewhere between 89.6˚F – 100.4˚F .

You will also need a hiding area for the tortoise as they need to get away from the heat and cool off a bit.

Ideally, the hiding area should be somewhere between 59˚F – 71.6˚F .

Having a hydrometer and a thermometer will also be helpful for you to determinate where your temperature stands in the tank as well as the humidity.

dojobkinb Reptile Basking Platform

Size: 15.75″ × 10″ | Material: Natural Rock

1. Heating Mats

The heating mats are probably the most common way to heat different enclosures and for good reasons, because they work with a lot of different animals.

The biggest plus when using the heating mats is that it gives your animal belly heat and for some animals, this is really important.

They are mostly used when using turtle tubs or rack systems because it’s a bit difficult to have lighting, especially on tubs and rack systems.

Even though they are really nice to have for certain things, they do have some cons and one of which being that they don’t work for wood enclosures , and in case you have a wood enclosure for your tortoise, you are going to have to look for different ways to heat your enclosure.

Tikaton Reptile Heat Pad

Size: 18.5″ X 8.5″ | Rated Voltage: 120V | Waterproof: IPX67 | Frequency: 60Hz

2. Ceramic Heater

The ceramic emitters or ceramic heater whatever you want to call it is made out of ceramic and it just goes into a usual light socket so you can use them with the heat lamps.

These ceramic heaters can get really hot depending on the wattage you get, so having a thermostat to keep the temperatures in check is advised.

The ceramic heater can be easily used in the basking spot together with the UVB light bulb.

These can also be great at night because they don’t let off light and a lot of different reptiles are going to need specific nighttime temperatures.

Just be careful when using the ceramic heater since they can affect the humidity because of how much heat they can emit.

Wuhostam 2 Pack 100W Infrared Ceramic Heat Lamp

Size: 2.95 x 2.95 x 3.94 inches | Wattage : 50 Watts | 2 Pack

3. Heat Bulbs

The heat bulbs aren’t too different from the ceramic bulbs, the main difference being that they can let off actual light so it can be good if your enclosure doesn’t have any light in it.

These have basically built-in UVB and heating so you can do it all in one bulb

Mega-Ray Mercury Vapor Bulb – 100 Watts (120V)

Size: 7.5 x 5.5 x 5.5 inches | Wattage : 100 Watts | Voltage: 100 Volts

Control the Enclosure Humidity

While it may be difficult to produce the high humidity we aim for if the air in your tortoise enclosure is dry, the overall concept is simple.

Humidity is the amount of water vapor in the air meaning that if there is a lot of water vapor in the air, the humidity will be high. So the higher the humidity, the wetter it feels outside .

Most of the pet tortoises tend to originate from areas of high humidity and usually do best in captivity at the right levels of humidity, at least in some places.

Some species of tortoises, such as the Yellow-foot, prefer very high humidity at around 95% or more.

Others do quite well at 80% or more, but can often endure lower levels as long as there is a place for them to hide in a more humid area.

Animals need to take in water by drinking, getting it in from their food, breathing it in, absorbing in it, or whatever.

Forest tortoises think that they can get plenty of moisture by just breathing, eating juicy foods, and finding water easily, so they do not control their water stores as efficiently as grass or dry soil species do.

Low humidity can also lead to dehydration.

Aiming for approximately 70% to 100% should be the standard , often settling at around 70% overall with some higher ratios in specific parts of the tortoise habitat.

Some species want more humidity, and baby forest tortoises appear to favor the higher levels of humidity.

A good layer of condensation on the glass of a warm habitat is a great sign that the humidity is roughly right. 

This can be measured more precisely with a humidity gauge or hygrometer. 

Zoo Med Labs Digital Thermometer Humidity Gauge, Single (TH-31)

Digital read out | Quick and easy to read | Waterproof probe

Ways to increase the humidity in the tortoise enclosure:

• Using a thick layer of the substrate to hold more liquid and thermal energy.
• Spilling water into the substrate
• Introducing live plants into the enclosure that are well watered and misted
• Adding into the enclosure some sort of water dish
• Misting the habitat more often by using a humidifier
• Using a sponge material in a hidden area
• Trapping the humidity in hiding places

Commonly Asked Questions About Tortoise Enclosures

The tortoise enclosure should be about 1 square foot of every square inch of tortoise is what we generally recommend.

Of course, they will need a clean source of water for them to drink. It’s also not advised to have a water source that it’s too deep for them since they cannot swim. The most natural thing to do for them is to spray them with some water as this will imitate the rain in nature.

Yes, every tortoise needs a heat lamp. They are cold-blooded animals and that means they get heat into their body using natural sunlight.

If you keep the substrate damp, then yes they will need a night heat source so your tortoise can move to that spot if he feels like it.

Yes definitely, the best place for your pet tortoise is actually outside. Just be careful if you want to keep your tortoise outside, you will need to seal their enclosure, as natural predators will try and snatch your tortoise.

When it comes to tortoise enclosures you can get really creative here as there is no real blueprint on how to create or improve them.

And here you have it, the best tortoise enclosures available in the market.

You can keep your pets happy and stress-free with these products and save help them exercise by providing the largest enclosure possible.

Whatever your choice is, you will get the best because all products here are listed with the comfort and health of your pet in mind.

Last updated on March 19th, 2022 .

How to Set up a Tortoise Enclosure: The Complete Guide

As when caring for any animal, your first priority should be to set up a suitable habitat for your new pet. This is particularly true for those who keep tortoises, as these animals are often uniquely adapted to living in their natural habitats.

Below, we’ll try to help you provide your new pet with a suitable habitat, which will meet all of his needs.

You’ll obviously need to tweak some of these recommendations to suit the needs of the particular species you keep, but – generally speaking – most tortoises will thrive when provided with the same basic enclosure style.

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Tortoise Enclosure Basics

We’ll delve into the more detailed aspects of tortoise enclosure design below, but let’s start by reviewing some of the basic things you’ll need to understand and address. Obviously, different tortoise species hail from different habitats and have slightly different needs, so you’ll need to customize these recommendations to suit your specific pet. However, all tortoises have a few common needs.

• Your tortoise will require a secure habitat that keeps him contained safely inside and prevents unauthorized people, other pets, or wildlife from entering the enclosure and harming your pet . It’s rarely difficult to keep a tortoise contained, but it can be tricky to exclude animals from outdoor enclosures.
• Your tortoise’s enclosure must be large enough to provide your pet with a suitable thermal gradient and enough room to exercise and carry out natural behaviors . This includes things like foraging, digging, and retreating to concealed hiding spaces.
• You’ll need to keep your pet’s enclosure within the proper thermal range for the species . In some cases, the surrounding room or outdoor temperatures will already be within the proper range (particularly if you live within the natural range of your pet). In other cases, you’ll need to add heating devices to provide your pet with the ability to reach proper body temperatures.
• Most tortoises will require either regular access to natural, unfiltered sunlight or an enclosure fitted with specialized light bulbs, which mimic the sun’s rays . Failure to provide one of these options will almost invariably lead to long-term illness.
• Your tortoise’s enclosure will need a suitable substrate or ground cover, as well as the types of furniture he needs to thrive . This primarily means visual barriers and hiding places.
• Some desert-dwelling tortoise species may go their entire lives without drinking liquid water – they obtain most of the water they need from their food . However, most individuals will readily drink water to satisfy their hydration needs if offered. Additionally, many tortoises like to occasionally walk through or soak in shallow puddles.
• After establishing the habitat and introducing your pet, you’ll need to maintain the enclosure to keep it clean and in good working order . This includes some things you’ll need to do on a daily basis and others that are necessary on a weekly, monthly or annual basis.

Your First Consideration: Indoor or Outdoor Maintenance

Unlike many other common pet reptiles, such as snakes or lizards who must often be maintained indoors, tortoises often thrive best in outdoor habitats. So, the first thing you’ll need to determine is whether you want to house your pet inside or outside.

Generally speaking, outdoor maintenance is almost always preferable for tortoise maintenance whenever possible. Obviously, keepers living in northern latitudes may not be able to do this for any species, and even those living in more temperate areas will not be able to keep tropical species outdoors. But, if you do live in a climate that is roughly similar to the home range of your pet, you should at least consider outdoor maintenance.

Some of the benefits of maintaining your tortoise outdoors include:

• It is generally easier to provide your pet with a lot of space outdoors than it is indoors.
• Access to natural sunlight alleviates the need for elaborate lighting fixtures and is typically helpful for promoting long-term health.
• The airflow outdoors will help prevent the kinds of odors that are common with indoor maintenance.
• It is often possible to grow edible grasses and herbs inside the enclosure, on which your tortoise can graze.

However, there are also some drawback to keeping your pet outdoors. A few of the most notable challenges include:

• Tortoises kept outdoors are more vulnerable to nefarious people, predators, pets and rodents.
• Over time, many types of outdoor enclosures will rot or decay, necessitating replacement.
• It is possible that your pet will escape, and runaway turtles are typically very difficult to find.
• You may have to make adjustments during inclement weather.

So, be sure to consider the issue carefully before making a decision and talk things over with your vet or any more experienced keepers you know.

Providing Your Tortoise with an Enclosure

If you intend to maintain your tortoise outside, you’ll likely need to construct a habitat from the ground up. On the other hand, keepers who intend to house their pet indoors will typically (though not always) purchase a habitat – at least at the outset.

We’ll cover each option below.

Providing an Outdoor Enclosure for Your Tortoise

If you want to construct an outdoor enclosure for your pet, you’ll want to start by selecting the location. Try to pick a place with both sun exposure and shade that is also relatively flat (gentle slopes are fine – perhaps even helpful in areas with high quantities of rain).

As far as the size of the enclosure goes, you’ll usually want to make it as large as your available space and budget will allow. However, minimally, you’ll want to provide small species with about 16 to 32 square feet of space, and large tortoises with five to 10 times this much.

Then you’ll want to decide what material you make the enclosure walls from. Cinder blocks, sealed wood and plastic “wood,” are all viable options. Whichever material you choose, be sure to extend the walls of the cage below ground level for at least 12 to 18 inches (and this may not be sufficient for very large species). This will help prevent digging species from tunneling to freedom.

You’ll also have to decide whether you want to make a “roof” for the enclosure or leave it open. Generally, it will be wise to include a roof if your pets are small, but very large tortoises will often remain safe in open-air enclosures. Generally hardware cloth or some other type of wire will make a good roof, but there are other options, such as corrugated plastic. You’ll just have to weigh the value of sunlight and security and make the best choice you can.

Providing an Indoor Enclosure for Your Tortoise

Most keepers who set up a tortoise in an indoor enclosure will purchase their pet’s habitat. You can choose from many different types of enclosures, ranging from kiddie swimming pools to large aquaria. However, commercially manufactured tubs or similar enclosures are typically the best option. Glass aquaria in the sizes necessary for tortoise maintenance will be unbelievably large, heavy and expensive, while tortoise tubs will be both lighter and less expensive.

Obviously, you won’t be able to provide as much space for your pet if you’re keeping him indoors, but you should still strive to provide him with as much space as possible. Minimally, you’ll want to provide very small species with 60 to 160 gallons of space; large species will often require 240 gallons of space or more. Clearly, this won’t be enough for some of the very large species, which illustrates the reason many tortoise keepers opt for outdoor enclosures.

You don’t have to worry much about your tortoise’s needs when you decide where to place the habitat inside your home – your primary considerations will revolve around your wants and needs. However, you’ll definitely want to avoid placing it in a place exposed to noxious fumes (such as some garages) or in places with extreme temperatures (such as some basements or sunrooms).

Aside from the acquisition of the habitat and the placement in your home, there’s not much else you’ll have to do to set up your indoor tortoise enclosure.

Maintaining the Thermal Environment

Once you’ve established the enclosure, you should turn your attention to the temperatures within the habitat. And no matter what type of tortoise you keep or whether you keep your pet indoors or outdoors, you’ll want to establish a thermal gradient, or range of temperatures within the habitat. This way, your tortoise can decide what temperature is best for him at a given time, rather than you dictating the temperature he must be. When he needs to warm up, he can move to the warmer portions of the enclosure and vice versa.

To establish a thermal gradient for an outdoor habitat, you’ll need to include areas of direct sunlight (preferably one side of the enclosure) and areas of deep shade (preferably the opposite side of the habitat). But, for indoor maintenance, you’ll instead want to simply place all of the heating devices at one end of the enclosure.

The best heating devices to use for tortoises are typically heat lamps , but radiant heat panels will also work. No matter which you choose, you’ll want to monitor the temperatures they provide with a high-quality thermometer. The temperatures you’ll want to target vary from species to species, but generally, you’ll want the basking spot (the warmest spot in the enclosure, directly beneath the heat lamps) to be between 90 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures should gradually fall as you move away from the basking spot, with the cold side of the enclosure hovering in the low- to mid-70s.

Be sure to turn off your pet’s heating devices at night to instill a proper day-night cycle in temperatures and light levels. An automatic lamp timer will make this much easier and is well worth the small added cost.

Providing Proper Lighting for Your Pet

If you’re keeping your tortoise outdoors and he has regular access to bright sunlight, you likely won’t need to provide any additional lighting. However, almost all tortoises reared indoors will require full-spectrum lights that produce rays in the UVB portion of the spectrum.

These types of light are necessary because tortoises depend on UV rays to properly metabolize the calcium in their diet. UVB exposure allows the animals to produce vitamin D, which in turn is used to utilize calcium. When deprived of such light, tortoises can develop a number of metabolic and skeletal problems that are often irreversible.

Fortunately, UVB-producing lights are common in the marketplace. You’ll simply need to determine whether you’d prefer a mercury-vapor bulb (which produces UVB rays and heat) or fluorescent bulbs (which produce UVB rays but only negligible amounts of heat). This will obviously influence your choice of heating devices. If you use mercury vapor bulbs, you likely won’t require additional heat lamps; if you select fluorescent bulbs, you’ll also need to purchase heat lamps.

Note that all of these lights typically come with distance recommendations from the manufacturer – you’ll need to keep them within X number of inches of your pet to ensure good UVB absorption. Additionally, these lamps produce less UVB over time, so they require regular replacement.

As with the heat lamps you use in your pet’s enclosure, you’ll want to be sure to turn the UVB lights off at night, so that your tortoise has a regular day-night cycle.

Substrate and Enclosure Furniture

With your enclosure set up and the heating and lighting devices installed, you can turn your attention to the substrate and furniture for your pet’s habitat. We’ll discuss each separately below.

Substrate Selection for Tortoise Habitats

There are a variety of different substrates you can use in your pet’s enclosure, and each presents a different combination of pros and cons – no substrate is perfect in all situations. We’ll discuss a few of the most suitable options below:

• Cypress mulch or orchid bark – Cypress mulch and orchid bark are likely the two best options for most tortoises, especially those hailing from humid habitats. Cypress mulch is far more affordable than orchid bark, but orchid bark generally looks better and has a pleasant aroma. There is a small chance that your tortoise will try to consume these types of substrate (which can lead to choking or impaction), but these types of problems are usually rare.
• Newspaper – Newspaper is typically an awesome substrate for most types of reptiles, especially for beginning keepers, who’re still learning how to tend to their pet’s needs. Aside from being quite affordable (essentially free), newspaper is very easy to replace, making it relatively simple to keep the enclosure clean. However, it isn’t always a good choice for tortoises, as they’ll often have trouble getting traction on such a smooth surface. Also, tortoises may occasionally try to consume newspaper, which can lead to impactions. This doesn’t mean you can’t use newspaper, but you’ll want to observe your pets and ensure they’re getting around easily enough and also be sure to keep them well-fed, to help reduce the chances that they’ll nibble on the newspaper.
• Edible substrates (alfalfa, hay, rabbit pellets, etc.) – Because tortoises often taste and consume substrates, some keepers opt to use completely edible substrates, such as alfalfa hay, or rabbit pellets. Theoretically, the consumption of moderate quantities of these substrates won’t cause your pet any harm, and some will actually serve as nutritious forage. But they also exhibit downsides. For starters, they’re typically expensive, and purchasing quantities large enough to fill a tortoise enclosure can be cost prohibitive. Additionally, many of these substances will rot if allowed to become wet, thereby leading to fungal or bacterial growth.
• Soil – Organic, additive-free t opsoil and potting soil are suitable substrates for some tortoises. They’re unlikely to represent a serious choking hazard, and most tortoises will not be inclined to eat them in great quantities. They’ll also look nice and allow your pet to burrow, which is very important for some species. However, soil will generally leave your pet covered in a thin layer of dirt, and it can be tricky to limit the amount of dust and mess that’ll spread around the room in which you place the habitat.
• Natural ground cover – If you keep your tortoise outdoors, you can usually just keep the soil in place and allow native grasses, clovers and other plants to grow naturally. As long as the plants are non-toxic, they won’t represent a danger for your pet, and they may even serve as a supplemental food source. Plants and grasses may or may not discourage digging activity, depending on the root systems involved.

Cage Furniture Your Tortoise Will Need

In contrast to many other reptiles, tortoises don’t require a lot of elaborate cage furnishings. In fact, it is often important that you don’t overcrowd the enclosure, given the bulky and somewhat “unathletic” nature of chelonians. But that doesn’t mean you want to set up a completely barren enclosure either.

In practice, you’ll want to provide your pet with hiding places and a few visual barriers – particularly if you’re keeping more than one tortoise in the enclosure.

There are several different types of hiding places you can provide to your pet, and your choice will largely be dictated by your aesthetic tastes and your pet’s size. If you want natural-looking hiding places for your pet, it is hard to find something better than corkbark. Corkbark is lightweight, it looks fantastic, and it generally makes for excellent hiding places. However, corkbark isn’t particularly cheap, nor is it available in sizes large enough for giant tortoises.

If you don’t care about the hiding places looking natural, you can improvise any number of hiding places. Inverted cat litter pans, commercially built hiding places, and simple cardboard boxes are but a few of the options available to you. However, very large tortoises may need hiding places built out of coolers or large plastic storage boxes.

In addition to hiding places, you may want to include some visual barriers. These can take the form of just about anything you like, as long as they’re safe for your pet. Large pieces of driftwood, faux rocks, and live plants all work well in such capacities. Just be sure that if you decide to include plants in your tortoise’s enclosure, you select species that are non-toxic .

Water Reservoirs

As mentioned earlier, some tortoises – particularly desert-dwelling species – may never drink liquid water in the wild. However, it is almost always appropriate to provide your pet with a dish of clean, fresh water at all times.

Because of their physical builds, tortoises require relatively wide, shallow water dishes. If possible, the dishes should be large enough to accommodate your pet’s entire body. This way, he can soak in his water dish if he desires. Just note that because most tortoises are poor swimmers, it is wise to avoid including any deep water in their habitats – a few inches of depth are all that’s necessary for large individuals, and a single inch is likely enough depth for small species.

In a perfect world, you’d opt for ceramic or stainless-steel water reservoirs, but these aren’t always available or affordable for large specimens. In these cases, you may want to use something like a plant saucer or a cat litter pan instead. Just realize that these types of water receptacles will not last as long as more durable options, so you’ll need to replace them regularly.

Habitat Maintenance

Once the habitat is established, you’ll need to keep it in good working order. The exact tasks you’ll need to perform will vary based on the way your set up the habitat, whether you’re keeping your pet indoors or outdoors, and the species you’re keeping.

Nevertheless, the basic things you’ll need to do include:

• Inspect the habitat on a daily basis. Ensure that your pet looks healthy (you don’t necessarily need to pick him up or directly handle him to do so) and that everything appears to be in good working order.
• Monitor the enclosure temperatures on a regular basis. Ideally, you should check the enclosure temperatures several times a day, but if the temperatures tend to be relatively stable, two to four times a week will likely suffice.
• Spot-clean the enclosure as necessary on a daily basis. Remove any uneaten food, shed scutes or skin, feces, or urates.
• Perform a complete substrate change on a regular basis. The exact timing of substrate changes will vary based on a number of factors, but most indoor enclosures will require a complete substrate change about once per month. You may, however, be able to keep the enclosure clean while only replacing the substrate two or three times per year in an outdoor enclosure.
• Inspect all enclosure doors and moving parts to be sure they’re working properly.
• Check on the status of any live plants growing in the enclosure. Water, prune or replace them as is required.
• Empty, clean and refill the water reservoir on a daily basis. Once per week, you should also sterilize the water reservoir – just be sure to rinse it thoroughly and let it dry completely before placing it back in the enclosure.

In addition to maintaining the habitat, you’ll also need to feed your tortoise regularly. Most keepers feed young individuals on a daily or nearly daily basis, but adults will often thrive when fed four or five times per week. This is especially true for individuals who live in cages where edible plants are maintained.

Proper habitat design doesn’t guarantee that you’ll have success with your pet tortoise, but it certainly means you’ll start on the right foot and have a good chance of giving your pet a long, healthy and happy life. Just try to embrace the concepts discussed above and ensure that you’re designing the habitat in accordance with your pet’s natural habitat and species-specific needs. Also, don’t be afraid to seek guidance from more experienced keepers or make any adjustments necessary to keep your tortoise comfortable.

Outdoor Tortoise Enclosure Setup Guide: A To Z [Beginners Guide]

fact checked & review by

Dr. Partho Kumar Shaha Veterinarian (DVM)

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

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Building an outdoor tortoise enclosure requires proper planning and resources. You also have to consider the safety of your tortoises as they can be a victim of predators and thieves. As a first-time owner of tortoises. You are probably overwhelmed thinking about how to make the best enclosure.

In this outdoor tortoise enclosure setup guide , I will tell you how to build a perfect outdoor enclosure for your pet tortoise. You should know that different tortoises have different requirements. So, you may have to adjust some points discussed in this article according to your tortoise’s needs. 

What to Consider Before Setting Up An Outdoor Tortoise Enclosure?  

You can build an outdoor tortoise enclosure from scratch or buy one. Whatever you do, you have to consider some factors before setting up a tortoise enclosure. Here is what you should think about: 

The Weather of Your Area

First, you must consider the weather in your area. You should build an outdoor enclosure if you live where the weather remains warm most of the year. It is better if the tortoise you are getting lives is native to similar conditions in your area. 

The Size of The Enclosure 

Tortoises are slow reptiles, but it does not mean they spend their time in just one space. They roam around a lot. They hunt for food and look around for partners. So, if you want to keep your tortoise comfortable, provide them with as much space as you can. 

Consider the size of the tortoise to determine the size of the enclosure. The length of the tortoise enclosure should be at least three times the length of your tortoise and four times its width. 

Small tortoises can live comfortably in an 8ft X 4ft enclosure. But large-size tortoises require more space . For example, Sulcata tortoises should be in a 10ft X 10ft enclosure and leopard tortoises in a 10ft X 8ft enclosure. If you have a pair of large-size tortoises, build a 10ft X 20ft enclosure. 

Location of the Enclosure 

In the wild, the tortoise can roam around freely. So, it can visit a sunny space to bask and a shady place to cool off. The same should be in an outdoor enclosure of your pet tortoise. 

Therefore, try to build the enclosure in a space where the tortoise can get a good amount of sunlight. Also, you should be able to monitor the location easily. Many predatory animals can target tortoises. Hence, the enclosure should be close to your vision. 

Proper Drainage 

Tortoises are land turtles. They are not dependent on water and stay on the land. So, the land of the enclosure should stay dry. Rainwater can get stuck in a flat area. So, try to choose land which is not completely flat. It is better if the space is slightly sloped so that the rainwater does not get stuck.

Dig some holes around the wall to drain the water from the enclosure. Living in water-clogged land is harmful to tortoises. They can get respiratory infections or shell rot.  

Electric Supply Options 

It is not always possible to find the perfect spot with lots of sunlight. So, set up a proper lighting system in the enclosure to keep the tortoise warm. Besides, your tortoise will need UV lights to stay healthy during the winter. 

For setting up the lights, you need electricity. Hence, you have to build an outdoor enclosure where you can connect to the electricity without much problem. 

An Ideal Tortoise Habitat According To An Expert

An ideal habitat is large and spacious.  It has the correct UVB bulb and heat bulb.  There is access to fresh water daily, a cool side and a hot side. Sometimes you may want to cover part of the top (not by the light bulbs) to keep heat or humidity in. 

The best way is a piece of plexiglass.  It is best to keep the habitat away from the window or drafty areas.  It is also important to keep tortoises/turtles away from other pets especially dogs and cats since they are predators and can severely injure or kill them.

– Patty Mesich

What Do You Need For A Tortoise Set Up Outside?

After you have chosen a place, make a list of things needed to build the outdoor enclosure. Here is a list of materials you may need to make an outdoor enclosure. You can change this list depending on the size and style of your tortoise enclosure. 

• Wall building materials (Wood, stone, brick, metal, concrete)
• Wire mesh for roof
• UV lights and heat lamp

Substrates 

• Plants for shades
• Furniture and decorations 
• Water 

Wall Building Materials 

The first thing you need to get for your outdoor tortoise enclosure is the materials for building the walls. There are different materials to choose from. What material you will use depends on your budget and how strong you want to make the enclosure. 

Wood is one of the most common materials for building tortoise enclosures. It is one of the least expensive materials. Try to avoid using chemically treated woods for your tortoise enclosure. Chemicals are dangerous for tortoises. 

Untreated woods are prone to termite attack and rot. So, change or repair the enclosure after every few years. 

If you want a permanent enclosure for your tortoises, you can build it with durable materials like bricks and concretes. 

Wire Mesh for Roofing 

Tortoises may seem slow animals, but they can also be sneaky. They can climb the walls and escape. So, you should put a roof over the enclosure. But your tortoise needs sunlight and air.  

So, you need to put a wired mesh over the enclosure. This way, you can prevent predatory animals and birds from attacking the tortoises.  

You can build a partial wooden roof on one side of the enclosure to let your tortoise take shelter from prying eyes. The tortoises can also stay there in cold weather. 

Tortoises thrive in a warm environment. If you are building an outdoor enclosure, choose a spot where your turtle can get direct sunlight. There should be different ranges of temperature within the enclosure. 

The basking area for tortoises should have a temperature of 90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. In different parts of the enclosure, the temperature should be lower. The coolest part of the enclosure should be 70 degrees Fahrenheit. 

What if you cannot choose a sunny spot to build an outdoor enclosure? Or maybe the temperature in your area is not high enough for your tortoise. In that case, get a heating lamp for your tortoise. 

Heating lamps of various powers are available in the market. You can buy one according to the size of the enclosure. When you set up the heat lamp, put it at a safe distance from the tortoises. 

Sunlight is crucial for tortoises as they need UV lights to stay healthy. If the tortoises do not get sufficient sunlight, you must set up UV lights for them. 

UVB rays from the sun help your tortoise to produce vitamin D in their body. Tortoises need vitamin D to metabolize the calcium from their digested food. Without the UVB rays, the tortoises will become sick. They will suffer from bone problems and shell problems. 

Your turtle will need substrates depending on its species. Tortoises like to burrow and build nests in the substrates. So, the substrates should be soft and diggable for tortoises.

You can mix soil and sand to create substrates for the tortoises. Peat moss, cypress mulch and orchid barks are also good choices as substrates. These are great for maintaining humidity in the enclosure. You can get grasses, like Bermuda grass or Fescue grass and plant them on the substrates. 

Plants for Shades

Next, think about providing some shade in the enclosure. For that, you can choose some tortoise-friendly plants and bushes. 

Tortoises need heat and light to stay healthy, no doubt. But they can get too hot basking under the light for hours. They need a space cooler than the basking area to cool off and rest. Keeping plants is the best way to provide natural shading in the enclosure. 

Now, remember, tortoises can be quite curious. They may bite on the plants to taste them. Hence, you should plant tortoise-friendly plants in the enclosure. 

Dandelions and aloe vera are excellent choices as tortoises enjoy eating them. You can choose nasturtium, clover, cactus, geranium, and pansies. 

Furniture and Decoration

If you want to keep your tortoise happy, make the enclosure look natural as much as possible. Adding plants and bushes is not enough to create a natural environment in the enclosure. You should add some furniture too. 

Consider building hiding spots like caves and rain shelters for the tortoises to hide when it rains.

Keeping the land completely flat is not a good idea. You can add various sizes and shapes of rocks to the enclosure. You can also decorate with different sizes of rocks. Like this, you can add some diversity to the tortoise enclosure. 

In the wild, tortoises can visit water source whenever it feels thirsty or too hot. So, there has to be water in the enclosure. Depending on the species and size of the tortoise, you can place a bowl of water or build a shallow pool. 

You can buy a pool liner or try building a pool by yourself. The water pool should be near the drainage holes of the enclosure so that the splashed water can slip out.  

As you can see, you can choose to build the walls with wood and metal or more permanent materials like brick and concrete. Depending on where you live, you may not need UV lights or a heat lamp. So, you can change the materials according to your preference. 

How Do You Set Up An Outdoor Tortoise Enclosure?

Now that you know what you need to build an outdoor tortoise enclosure, you can start building one for your pet tortoise. Here is how I have set up an outdoor enclosure for my Red-footed tortoises. 

Step 1: Gather the Materials

Let us consider building an 8ft X 8ft outdoor enclosure for today’s project. You can build a smaller or larger size enclosure according to the size of your tortoise. The outdoor enclosure will be made of wood. So, gather all the materials you need to build the structure, like landscape timbers, stakes, nails, measuring tapes, a hammer and a shovel. 

Step 2: Clear the Location

You have to choose an ideal location to build the enclosure. After choosing the location, use the measuring tape and four wooded stakes to mark the space. Then clean the area to remove any plants, grasses, and debris. 

Step 3: Dig a Trench to Build the Walls

Next, take a shovel and dig a trench in the marked area for building the wall. It should be at least 12 inches deep. 

Tortoises can dig deep and get out of the enclosure, or some other animal can dig under the walls and get in. Therefore, you should build walls deep to prevent your pet from escaping. Place four 8ft long landscaping timbers on the trenches as the base of the wall.

To avoid rainwater from getting clogged up in the enclosure, dig some holes around the perimeter of the enclosure wall to allow rainwater to drain out. It is better to dig the drainage holes while you are building the base wall. 

Step 4: Build the Walls 

Attach four corner support stakes and place more timber on the base timbers to add height to the walls. Tortoises can climb and escape from the enclosure. The walls should be twice as high as the shell length of your tortoise. Besides, predators can also get into the easily if the walls are low. So, keep the walls high. 

Step 5: Add Substrates  

As mentioned above, you can choose from different types of substrates to put in the enclosure. To build an all-natural enclosure, I used a mix of soil and sand to create the substrates. You can also use topsoil.

Spread the substrate inside the enclosure. You can remove a few inches of land from the enclosure floor. Then evenly spread the substrates where you want. Keep the substrates at least 6 inches deep for the tortoises to burrow or lay eggs . 

Step 6: Decorate the Enclosure 

After building the enclosure and adding structure, you can start decorating with plants and furniture. Your tortoises should get plenty of sunlight in some part of the enclosure where they will bask. Put some rocks and logs so that the tortoises can keep themselves entertained climbing on them.

Provide some plants that are common in the natural habitat of your tortoise. Place them strategically to create shade in the enclosure for your tortoise. Your tortoises will like to spend some time in cool areas after basking under the sun or basking lamps. 

Then build a cave or shelter on one side of the enclosure for the tortoises to stay during rain or cold weather. The shelter should be large because you might need to place a heating bulb in case the weather gets too cold for the tortoise. 

Step 7: Place a Water Bowl

If you do not want to make a water pool in the enclosure, you can place a shallow water bowl for your tortoises to drink water and soak. Place the water bowl on one side close to the wall. 

If you want something permanent, dig a hole in one side and use cement to build the pool. It should not be too deep since tortoises are not skilled swimmers like turtles. 

Step 8: Get a Cover for The Enclosure 

When you finish building and decorating, get a large wired mesh to cover the enclosure. Make sure the cover is large enough to sit on the wall, and there is no wide gap. It should have hinges to remove the cove whenever you have to. 

How Do I Keep My Outdoor Tortoise Warm? 

If your pet tortoise is native to your area, you may not need any extra heating source to keep the tortoise warm. 

But if the temperature goes below 70 degrees Fahrenheit, you should place a ceramic heating lamp in the enclosure to keep your tortoise warm. You can fix a heating lamp over the basking area. 

Living in cold temperatures can cause respiratory infections in tortoises. Besides, tortoises need to stay warm to digest their food and perform other activities. 

Can I Leave My Tortoise Outside At Night?

You can leave your tortoise in the outdoor enclosure at night during summer. Just make sure it is comfortable and safe in there. Your tortoises should be alright when the temperature remains 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit at night. 

However, in spring and fall, the temperature can get below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. In such conditions, you can light a heating lamp for your tortoise or bring your pet indoors at a warm temperature.  

Using A Premade Tortoise Enclosure 

If you do not have the time and energy to build your pet tortoise enclosure from scratch, you can buy a premade tortoise enclosure. There are many tortoise enclosures out there in the market. Choosing the perfect tortoise enclosure can be difficult for a new tortoise owner . So we have chosen one for your consideration. 

Aivituvin-AIR21 Wooden Tortoise House

The Aivituvin-AIR21 Wooden Tortoise House is one of the best tortoise houses on the market. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The fir wood enclosure is made of non-toxic materials. So, it does not put your tortoise at any health risk. 

The bottom part of the enclosure is made of plastic hence, moisture does not affect it. It makes it safe to use wet substrates necessary to maintain humidity in the enclosure. The removable bottom tray also makes it easy to clean. 

Aivituvin-AIR21 Wooden Tortoise House has two separate rooms for your precious pet. One is the activity room and the other is the resting room. There is a solid roof over the resting room to provide darkness and warmth. Then there is a wire mesh cover over the activity room. The sunlight can reach your tortoise through the cover. You can fix a basking lamp over the wire mesh cover on the attached stand. 

The wide door from the resting room to the activity room makes it easier for the tortoises to move freely. 

The Aivituvin-AIR21 Wooden Tortoise House is perfect for small to medium size tortoise(s). Many people attach two Aivituvin-AIR21 Wooden Tortoise houses to accommodate multiple tortoises. Although the tortoise house comes unassembled, it is easy to assemble with a helping hand. 

Specifications:

• Material: 100% Fir Wood with plastic bottom 
• Overall Dimension: 38.1” (L) x22.4” (W) x13.1” (H)
• Package includes: 1 x Wooden hutch and 1 x Instruction
• Suitable for indoors and outdoor
• Non-toxic fir wood
• Easy to clean
• Appropriate for small and medium size tortoises
• Awkward position of the light stand 

Check for Price

Conclusion 

Building an outdoor enclosure in the right place can be the best choice you ever make for your tortoise. Tortoises are the happiest when they are close to nature. Providing just an enclosure is not enough for a tortoise. You need to make sure the tortoise gets sufficient sunlight and a place to take a rest. 

Follow the steps mentioned in this article to build the perfect outdoor enclosure for your precious pet tortoise . While you build the enclosure, pay attention to your tortoise’s specific needs.  

About Author

Muntaseer Rahman started keeping pet turtles back in 2013. He also owns the largest Turtle & Tortoise Facebook community in Bangladesh. These days he is mostly active on Facebook .

This site is owned and operated by Muntaseer Rahman. TheTurtleHub.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.

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Turtle Tank Setup Checklist

How to Transport Your Pet Turtle Safely?

Whether you’re making a trip to the vet, moving to a new place, or simply going for a long trip across the country, you may be wondering about the best way to carry your turtle with you. You want to ensure you transport your little buddy most safely.

How to transport your pet turtle safely? You can safely transport your pet turtle in a sturdy container, e.g. a plastic box. Make sure the container has some good ventilation and the ambient temperature inside stays at the recommended range for your pet species. Remember to periodically check on your turtle.

Our guide below will give you helpful advice on how to safely transport your pet turtle in a safe and comfortable manner, what preparations to make in advance, and the different transportation options to consider.

Turtle transportation guide:

Here are some crucial tips to keep in mind when transporting your pet turtle:

Choose a transportation option

The most popular methods of transportation for your pet turtle include travel carriers and insulated boxes.

• Travel carriers: These can be plastic containers or pet carriers. A good carrier should be spacious enough for your turtle to comfortably sit in and turn around. It should also be well-ventilated and secure to prevent your turtle from escaping during transportation.
• Insulated boxes: These are helpful when transporting your turtle for long trips and the weather is cold. The boxes come designed to help regulate the temperature inside, thus helping keep your turtle comfortable.
• DIY carrier: You can safely and comfortably transport your pet turtle by putting it in a sturdy and clean container such as a plastic shoe box or cardboard box. Don’t use anything rigid like a glass container that lacks ventilation.

An ideal box should offer just enough space for your turtle to stay inside and turn around comfortably. Don’t use a box with too much space to move around.

Preparing the box

Line up the bottom of the container with padding of shredded newspaper, paper towel, or towel to act as the substrate.

Unlike what most turtle owners think, water isn’t necessary when transporting your turtle. Aquatic turtles can tolerate being out of the water for a while.

However, if you’re going for a long trip and your turtle will be inside the box for hours, then you may consider frequently misting it or even moistening its substrate.

But be sure to regularly check that no fungus or mold is growing inside the container due to the damp environment. This is especially true if you’re going on long trips.

For even longer trips, you can provide your turtle with a shallow water dish filled with water to allow your turtle to get in if it feels the need to.

Make sure the box you choose has a lid that closes securely to help prevent your turtle from escaping .

Additionally, the lid will help keep the draft from getting to your turtle. If possible, keep the inside of the container dark.

Acclimation to the new home

You may also want to acclimate your turtle to its transportation container or carrier by placing it there a few times before the trip.

This will help your turtle get used to it, and can go a long way in helping reduce stress and anxiety in your little guy during the actual transportation.

Ventilation is crucial

Make sure the box has sufficient ventilation to allow air to flow in and out freely to avoid suffocating your little guy inside there.

If your container doesn’t have holes, you can drill them yourself. If you’re going for extended trips, you may also want to periodically open the turtle container to help it get some fresh air.

Temperature regulation during transit

You’ll also need to ensure the ambient temperature stays at the optimal range for your specific turtle species throughout the trip. A thermometer will help you monitor this temperature range.

Remember, turtles are cold-blooded and depend on their environment to help them regulate their body temperature.

You should be more worried about your turtle getting overheated than being cool. This is because the former can make it sluggish and may even become sick. ( Source ).

Transporting your turtle in warm weather:

If you’re traveling in warm weather, you may consider regularly misting your turtle or keeping its substrate damp during the trip. As this water evaporates, it creates a cooling effect around your turtle.

Alternatively, you can rely on your car’s air conditioning to keep the interior cool and thereby keep your pet turtle from overheating.

Some turtle owners also suggest placing the turtle box inside a cooler (Styrofoam will be a good choice) and then adding a cool pack to it. Keeping the cooler open is key for proper aeration.

Putting the cooler pack or one pack directly into your turtle’s box isn’t recommended. The pack shouldn’t be anywhere near your turtle.

Transporting your turtle in cold weather:

If you’re traveling in cool weather, you may also consider using a warmer pack, just the same way you’d use a cooler pack in hot weather. Place your turtle carrier inside the cooler box and then have the warmer pack wrapped around it.

The pack can be a heating pad, a bottle filled with hot water, sock containing heated rice, microwaved potato, etc. Whatever your do, don’t make your turtle get into contact with this hot pack.

Regularly monitor your turtle

Make sure you regularly check on your shelled buddy if you’re going for long trips.

For instance, every time you stop to get some gas, you can check how your pet turtle is doing inside the box.

This is important to ensure your turtle doesn’t flip over and unable to get itself back up and to remove any waste your turtle may have excreted.

Check the following video on how to safely transport your pet turtle:

Do you need to bring food when transporting your turtle?

Food isn’t necessary when transposing your turtle as these creatures can go for a day without eating. You can feed your turtle before the trip and see what its appetite is like for the rest of the trip.

An adult turtle’s feeding schedule should be after every 2-3 days . However, if you have a young or juvenile turtle, it’ll heartily eat every day , so you should make sure you bring enough food for the length of the trip.

How to transport a turtle on an airplane?

To transport your turtle on an airplane, you should first check with the airlines on the policies regarding flying with pets .

If they allow traveling with pets, go ahead and enquire if they require any additional paperwork such as a health certificate.

However, don’t try to sneak your pet turtle through the security, say through your carryon-baggage. Your turtle can easily suffocate and die due to such an unsuitable environment.

Besides, your turtle may get confiscated and you end up losing it in addition to incurring additional costs such as fines and penalties.

Once you have everything in place, you’ll just need to transport your turtle by plane just the same you’d do it by car as we’ve discussed above.

Final Verdict

Moving with your turtle can be stressful but with enough planning and tips to transport the animal safely and comfortably, things will get easier. Just ensure you get a suitable carrier for your pet that’s well ventilated and spacious enough for your pet turtle. And remember to maintain an optimal temperature inside the box. If you’re traveling in hot or cold weather, follow the tips we’ve discussed above to keep your turtle safe throughout the trip.

We hope that our guide has provided you with all the necessary info you need to know on how to transport your turtle by car or airplane.

Related posts:

• How To Preserve A Turtle Shell: A step-by-step Guide
• How To Trim A Turtle’s Nail? How Long Should It Be?
• Everything You Need To Know About Asian Box Turtle Care
• How Many Eggs Do Box Turtles Lay And How Often?

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How to transport or ship a turtle

1. Get a strong plastic container, such as one made by Rubbermaid ®, that is only slightly larger than your turtle and shallow enough so that when it is covered, the turtle can't flip over on its back. A small container prevents a turtle from moving around and possibly hurting itself. Never put more than one turtle in a container to minimize stress and prevent injury from biting and clawing.

2. BEFORE putting the turtle in the container, drill or burn (using a soldering iron) many holes in the upper walls and lid for ventilation. Be sure the holes are smooth on the inside.

3. Line the container with moist paper toweling or shredded newspaper. You want to put in enough bedding to keep the turtle from moving too much.  Transport adult turtles on shredded newspaper, and juvenile turtles on damp sphagnum moss or damp paper towels.

4. After putting the turtle in the container, securely tie or tape the container shut. Be sure not to cover the ventilation holes!

5. Put the turtle container in a Styrofoam cooler or cardboard box that is lined on the bottom, sides and top with crumbled or shredded newspaper. The outer box or cooler should have some ventilation holes.

6. Keep the box out of the sun! Although turtles naturally bask in the sun, they know when to retreat to the cool water or shade to prevent overheating When YOU put them in a container, they depend on YOU to keep them at the right temperature. When traveling by car, you can drape a newspaper or towel over the turtle's box to shade it and prevent overheating. Never leave your turtle in a container in the sun or in a car parked in the sun, even if the container is shaded with a cloth or paper. The container can quickly overheat (that includes Styrofoam coolers) and kill your turtle!

SHIPPING TURTLES : UPS and FedEx will ship turtles next day express, but shipping should only be done above 40F and below 90F. Visit   http://www. turtlerescues.com/shipping_ turtles.htm  to learn more about shipping through UPS, FedEx, or Delta Dash. 

Hepper is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more .

7 DIY Tortoise Enclosure Ideas You Can Easily Make (With Pictures)

By Nicole Cosgrove

Updated on Jan 28, 2024

Tortoises don’t jump and can’t really climb, which means that their enclosures need to offer horizontal space so that they can wander around. There needs to be enough space to offer a basking spot, a feeding area, and plenty of room to relax. The layout of the enclosures means that they are usually referred to as tortoise tables, and you can offer an indoor or outdoor table.

Rather than paying for a commercially available enclosure, which can cost hundreds of dollars, it is possible to make your own. The design is relatively simple, after all, and making your own tortie table not only means that you can save some money compared to buying one, but it means you can fashion the table to perfectly fit the space you have available and you can create your own internal design.

Below, we have included details of seven tortoise enclosure plans that you can take inspiration from.

The 7 DIY Tortoise Enclosure Ideas

1. amazing tortoise table by projectpet.

This tortoise table is portable thanks to the addition of wheels to the base of the plywood table. It also has side walls that slide in and out, making it easier to access the inside of the table, and there’s a decent amount of space in the enclosure so that you can add any décor and other items you want.

2. Habitat for a Hermann’s Tortoise by wikiHow

An indoor tortoise enclosure is really easy to make. It doesn’t need any weatherproofing, which means you can make it from an open plastic tub. Make sure the tub is big enough that your tortoise has plenty of space to go about its day. Add liner to the bottom to make cleaning easier and add a tub for water.

3. Make Your Own Tortoise Table by The Tortoise Table

Generally, you should avoid using any clear material when making a tortoise table. Tortoises can’t tell that clear surfaces are solid, and they will just continue to walk into the walls as they attempt to roam further. Wood is a good option, and if the tortoise table is being used inside, it doesn’t require too much in the way of treatment and protection. This guide gives very basic instructions on how to make a tortoise table , including instructions on hanging the lamps and providing a dark, secluded area where your tortoise can get some sleep.

4. Open-Topped Tortoise Enclosure by Tortoise Trust

This open-topped tortoise enclosure essentially uses seed trays to make compartmented sections within the open-topped enclosure. Different sections can be used for different purposes. This also means that you can have extra seed trays filled with cobbles or other items and you can swap them in when you take the old seed trays out for cleaning. It’s a simple design but it’s strong, sturdy, and well-ventilated.

5. Tortoise Table by Pet Tortoise

This tortoise table is an indoor table that uses wood for the main construction and also teaches you how to fit a lamp and UV tube. It also uses rocks and logs within the enclosure, mimicking the terrain that a turtle would live in. These act as obstacles and provide your tortoise with greater physical exercise and mental stimulation.

6. Easy to Make Tortoise Enclosure by Paul Cuffaro

Using just a handful of inexpensive items like ceramic pots and log hides, along with some mulch and a plastic tray, you can make a really simple and inexpensive tortoise. This easy-to-make enclosure also has a plant inside to provide shade and your tortoise can enjoy eating the leaves and plants, so make sure you choose a tortoise-safe plant and that you wash it down thoroughly before putting it in the enclosure. This gets rid of any chemicals that might otherwise harm your tortoise.

7. DIY Tortoise Table by Tortoise General

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwjROLVYgy0&ab_channel=TortoiseGeneral

DIY tortoise tables really are quite simple pieces. They do need walls, but the walls don’t have to be tall, and you can put dividers in to better partition the area and provide different areas for your tortie. As the plan suggests, make sure you don’t use arsenic-treated wood because this is toxic to tortoises.

How Big Should a Tortoise Enclosure Be?

The size of the enclosure depends on the species and size of the tortoise that will be kept inside. You can have a smaller enclosure for a young tortoise, but you will need to move it to something larger as it matures and grows. Generally, an enclosure needs to be 8 x 4 feet and the side walls should be a foot higher than the tortoise is tall to prevent it from being able to escape easily. If you have the floor space, you can absolutely make the enclosure bigger than this so your tortie has more room to roam.

Can You Keep a Tortoise Outside?

Tortoises can live outdoors, so as long as you live in an area where the conditions are suitable for tortoises. Make sure they have a shaded area, however, as well as somewhere to go and hide if the weather gets really bad. At the very least, you should be able to let your tortoise live outside for some of the year.

Should I Let My Tortoise Roam the House?

Tortoises, like most reptiles, can carry salmonella. This can be transferred to items that the tortoise touches and then onto your hands before coming into contact with your face and your mouth. You could end up with salmonella poisoning, and this is especially a risk if you let your tortie roam the house. As such, it is best not to let a tortoise roam.

Tortoises are incredible animals. They can live hundreds of years in the wild, and most pet tortoises will live at least 60 to 80 years, so you should be prepared for a long life of tortie ownership . During this time, you are likely to go through several tortoise enclosures, and rather than having to keep paying to buy new ones, you can make your own.

Above, we have included links to plans for seven homemade tortoise enclosures including those that are designed for indoor and outdoor use, and you can modify the plans to meet your space requirements and the requirements of your tortoises.

You Might Also Be Interested In:

• How Much & How Often to Feed Tortoises
• Do Tortoises Need a Heat Lamp
• https://www.tortoiseowner.com/how-to-keep-a-tortoise-outdoors-full-guide/
• https://www.tortoiseowner.com/how-much-space-do-tortoises-need/
• https://www.tortoiseowner.com/heres-why-tortoises-should-not-roam-around-the-house

Featured Image Credit: fullframes, Shutterstock

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How To Travel With A Tortoise On A Plane

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As a tortoise owner and frequent traveler, I know firsthand the challenges of bringing your shelled friend with you on a plane. It can be stressful for both you and your pet, but with careful preparation and research, it is possible to ensure a smooth travel experience.

In this article, I will share my tips and tricks for traveling with a tortoise on a plane. From researching airline policies to packing necessary supplies, I will cover everything you need to know to make sure your tortoise is comfortable and safe during the journey.

So whether you’re relocating or simply taking your pet on vacation, read on for expert advice on how to travel with your beloved tortoise by air.

Table of Contents

Research Airline Policies

Before you start planning your next adventure, make sure to research the policies of different airlines to ensure a smooth journey with your shelled companion. Not all airlines allow pets onboard, and even among those that do, there may be specific rules regarding tortoises.

Some airlines may require a health certificate or proof of vaccinations, while others may only allow certain breeds or sizes of animals on board. It’s important to also consider the type of carrier you will need for your tortoise.

Most airlines require that pets are transported in an airline-approved carrier that fits underneath the seat in front of you. However, this may not be suitable for a larger tortoise and you may need to purchase a special crate or container that can be checked as luggage.

Once you have researched which airlines are pet-friendly and what their policies are regarding tortoises, it’s time to book your tickets! Make sure to inform the airline ahead of time that you will be traveling with a pet so they can prepare accordingly.

With proper research and preparation, traveling with your tortoise can be a stress-free experience for both you and your scaly friend. When it comes to preparing your tortoise for travel, there are several things to keep in mind such as making sure they have enough food and water during transit, securing any loose items inside their container/crate so they don’t get jostled around too much during the flight, and providing them with adequate warmth if needed.

Prepare Your Tortoise for Travel

Get your little guy ready for the trip by making sure they’re hydrated and have had enough to eat. Did you know that tortoises can go up to a year without food, but still need water regularly?

Before traveling with your tortoise, it’s important to make sure they are in good health and not stressed. You’ll want to give them plenty of time to adjust to their travel carrier before the actual flight.

To ensure that your tortoise is well-hydrated during the trip, soak them in warm water before leaving. This will also help relax them and keep their skin moist. It’s also a good idea to bring along some fresh fruit or vegetables as a snack for your little friend. Just be sure not to overfeed them, as too much food can cause digestive problems.

Finally, remember that tortoises are sensitive creatures who may become easily stressed during travel. Be patient with them and provide plenty of love and reassurance throughout the journey. With proper preparation, your tortoise can safely accompany you on an exciting adventure!

Now let’s move on to packing necessary supplies for the trip.

Pack Necessary Supplies

Make sure you have everything your little buddy needs for the journey ahead, so they can feel comfortable and secure throughout the adventure. Packing supplies for your tortoise is as important as packing for yourself when traveling. Here are some essential items you need to bring with you:

Travel container: Your tortoise will need a safe and sturdy travel container that’s well-ventilated and provides enough space for it to move around. It should also be leak-proof, so make sure to line it with an absorbent material like paper towels or newspaper.

Food and water: Pack enough food and water for the duration of your trip, plus extra just in case of delays or unexpected circumstances. Bring along a small dish or bowl where your pet can eat and drink comfortably.

Heat source: Tortoises need a consistent source of heat to regulate their body temperature, especially during air travel where temperatures may fluctuate. A heating pad or heat lamp can provide warmth inside the travel container.

In addition to these basic necessities, consider bringing along familiar items like toys or blankets that can help ease any stress or anxiety your tortoise may experience during travel.

Don’t forget to double-check all airline regulations regarding traveling with pets before heading out. Arrive at the airport early to ensure smooth check-in procedures and allow ample time for security checks before boarding your flight with your beloved tortoise companion by your side.

Arrive at the Airport Early

Arriving early at the airport is crucial for a stress-free journey with your scaly friend. I learned this lesson the hard way during my first trip with my tortoise, Shelly. We arrived just in time for our flight and ended up rushing through security, causing quite a scene with Shelly’s large carrier.

Since then, I always make sure to arrive at least two hours before my flight. Not only does arriving early give you plenty of time to check-in and go through security without any added pressure, but it also allows you to take care of any unexpected issues that may arise.

For example, during one trip, I discovered that Shelly’s heat lamp wasn’t working properly while waiting in line to check-in. Thanks to arriving early, I was able to quickly purchase a new lamp from an airport pet store and avoid any potential health issues for my tortoise.

In addition, arriving early gives you time to settle your pet into their carrier and ensure they are comfortable before boarding the plane. This can be especially important for tortoises who may require some extra time adjusting to their surroundings. By taking the time to make sure your pet is happy and relaxed before takeoff, you can help minimize any stress or anxiety they may experience during the flight.

As we prepare to board the plane with our scaly companions by our side, it’s important not only to consider their comfort but also how we can be respectful of fellow passengers on our journey together.

Board the Plane

Okay, so now it’s time to board the plane with your tortoise. The first thing to keep in mind is to keep your little buddy close at all times. Remember, they’re probably scared and confused by all the noise and commotion of the airport, so having you nearby will help them feel more secure.

Secondly, make sure you follow any instructions given by the flight crew regarding your pet. They may have specific rules about where your tortoise can sit or how they need to be secured during takeoff and landing.

And finally, don’t forget to comfort your tortoise throughout the flight! Talk to them softly and offer them their favorite treats (if allowed) to help ease any anxiety they may be feeling.

Keep Your Tortoise Close

Don’t let your precious pet wander off and get lost in the hustle and bustle of the airport. Keep your tortoise close to you at all times, especially when boarding the plane. I recommend using a small carrier or container that fits comfortably under your seat. This way, you can ensure that your tortoise is safe and secure throughout the flight.

Make sure to check on your tortoise periodically during the flight to ensure their comfort. You may also want to bring along some snacks or treats to keep them happy and occupied. Remember, traveling with a pet requires extra attention and care, but it’s worth it for the peace of mind knowing they are with you every step of the way.

As we prepare for takeoff, it’s important to follow instructions from the crew for a smooth and safe flight experience for everyone on board including our furry friends.

Follow Instructions from the Crew

When you’re up in the air, it’s important to be attentive and follow instructions from the crew so that your flight experience is smooth and uneventful, just like how a tortoise needs a stable environment to feel safe.

Make sure to pay attention during the safety demonstration and listen for any announcements or instructions from the flight attendants. They may give specific instructions on where to stow your pet carrier or how often you can take your tortoise out of its container during the flight.

Remember that flying can be stressful for both you and your pet, so it’s important to stay calm and patient throughout the journey. If there are any issues or concerns about traveling with your tortoise, don’t hesitate to ask for help from the crew members. With their guidance and support, you can ensure a comfortable journey for both you and your shelled companion.

Speaking of comfort, let’s talk about some ways to make sure your tortoise feels at ease during the flight.

Comfort Your Tortoise

Make sure your shelled friend feels safe and comfortable in the air by providing them with plenty of familiar items and soothing words. As a seasoned tortoise traveler, I know how important it is to keep my little buddy happy during flights. Here are five essential items you should bring to make your tortoise feel at ease:

• A piece of their favorite blanket or fabric: This will help create a sense of familiarity and comfort for your shelled companion.
• Their usual food and water bowls: Make sure they have access to their regular food and water sources so they don’t get stressed out from changes in diet.
• A small hide box: You can use this as a temporary hiding place if your tortoise gets overwhelmed by the new environment.
• A portable UV light: Tortoises need UV light for proper growth and development, so make sure they have access to it even while traveling.
• Your own scent: Leave something that smells like you (like an old t-shirt) in their carrier so they feel reassured by your presence.

By bringing these items with you on the plane, you can ensure that your tortoise stays calm and content throughout the journey.

But what about during the flight?

During the Flight

As the flight takes off, it’s important to keep in mind that your little companion may feel stressed or anxious due to the unfamiliar surroundings and loud noise. During the flight, there are a few things you can do to make your tortoise more comfortable.

Firstly, ensure their enclosure is secure and stable so they don’t get jostled around during turbulence. Secondly, try covering their enclosure with a blanket or towel to help block out any unsettling sights or sounds.

Another way to help ease your tortoise’s anxiety is by providing them with familiar items from home. Bring along some of their favorite toys or bedding materials so they have a sense of familiarity in this new environment. Additionally, make sure they have access to fresh water and food throughout the flight.

Remember that traveling can be stressful for anyone – including your tortoise! So take extra care during the flight to ensure their comfort and well-being.

Upon arrival at your destination, you’ll want to continue providing them with a peaceful environment as they adjust to their new surroundings.

Upon Arrival

As the plane begins its descent, I can feel my heart racing with anticipation. After all the preparation and stress of bringing my tortoise on this flight, I’m finally about to land at my destination. But what comes next? How do I safely transport my shelled companion from the airport to our final destination?

Upon arrival, the first step is to retrieve your tortoise from oversized baggage claim. Make sure to handle them gently and check for any signs of stress or injury.

Then, carefully transfer them into their travel container and secure it in a safe place in your vehicle.

It’s important to remember that traveling can be stressful for any animal, so take things slow and allow your tortoise some time to acclimate before introducing them to their new surroundings.

And don’t forget to follow up with your vet – they can provide essential care advice as well as answer any questions you may have about traveling with a pet tortoise.

Follow Up with Your Vet

Don’t neglect to connect with your vet after arriving at your destination – they can offer valuable insight on caring for your beloved pet and dispel any doubts you may have about traveling with them. Even if your tortoise seems to have survived the journey unscathed, it’s always best to get a professional opinion.

Your vet can give you advice on how often and how much to feed them, how often to bathe them, and what kind of environment they need to thrive. In addition, your vet will be able to check for any potential health problems that may have arisen during the trip.

Tortoises are sensitive creatures that require special care, so it’s important not to take their health for granted. Your vet can give you tips on keeping their enclosure clean and hygienic, as well as advise you on any supplements or medications that might be necessary.

Finally, don’t forget to ask your vet about any additional paperwork or permits that may be required when traveling with a tortoise. Depending on where you’re going and how long you plan on staying there, certain regulations may apply.

By following up with your vet after arrival, you’ll ensure that both you and your pet are prepared for whatever comes next in your travels together. So go ahead – embrace the freedom of travel with a tortoise by your side!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i bring my tortoise on the plane with me in the cabin.

So you’re planning to fly and wondering if you can bring your beloved tortoise with you in the cabin. Well, I’ve been there, done that!

As a seasoned traveler with a passion for exotic pets, I know how important it is to have your loyal companion by your side. Unfortunately, most airlines don’t allow reptiles in the cabin due to safety concerns and regulations.

However, some airlines do permit small turtles or tortoises as long as they meet certain requirements such as being properly contained and not exceeding a certain weight limit. It’s always best to check with your airline ahead of time and make arrangements for your shelled friend’s safe travel.

Do I need to provide any documentation for my tortoise to travel on a plane?

As someone who’s traveled with a pet tortoise on several occasions, I know it can be nerve-wracking to navigate air travel with an exotic animal. When it comes to documentation, it’s important to do your research ahead of time and make sure you have all necessary paperwork in order. Depending on the airline and your destination, you may need to provide health certificates or other forms of proof that your tortoise is healthy and free from any contagious diseases.

While it might seem like a hassle at first, taking the time to properly prepare for your journey will ultimately help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for both you and your shelled friend.

What should I do if my tortoise becomes stressed during the flight?

During my last flight with my tortoise, I noticed that he became quite stressed during the journey. As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to keep an eye on your animal and make sure they feel comfortable throughout the flight.

To help ease any anxiety or stress your tortoise may experience, there are a few things you can do. Firstly, try to provide them with their usual habitat as much as possible in their travel carrier. This will give them a sense of familiarity and comfort during the flight.

Additionally, ensure that they have access to enough food and water throughout the journey to prevent dehydration or hunger-induced stress. Finally, talk to your veterinarian beforehand and ask for any advice or medication options that could be used if necessary.

Remember, keeping your pet happy and healthy should always be your top priority when traveling together!

Can I feed my tortoise during the flight?

I know what you’re thinking – feeding a tortoise during a flight? That sounds like a recipe for disaster. But hear me out, as someone who has traveled with their tortoise before, I can tell you that it’s not as crazy as it seems.

While it’s important to check with the airline beforehand and make sure they allow any type of animal food on board, if they do, then feeding your tortoise some fresh veggies or fruits can actually help keep them calm and content during the flight. Just be sure to pack everything in leak-proof containers and only offer small amounts at a time to avoid any messy mishaps.

Trust me, your little shelled friend will thank you for the snack break during their travels.

How do I ensure my tortoise stays hydrated during the flight?

When traveling with my tortoise, one of my top priorities is ensuring that he stays hydrated during the flight. I always make sure to bring a water dish and refill it whenever necessary. Additionally, I like to mist his enclosure with water to keep the air moist and prevent him from becoming dehydrated.

It’s important to note that different species of tortoises have varying hydration needs, so it’s crucial to research your specific type beforehand and consult with a veterinarian if necessary. Keeping your tortoise hydrated not only ensures their health during the flight but also helps them adjust to their new environment once you arrive at your destination.

Well, that’s it! I hope you found this guide helpful and informative. Traveling with a tortoise can be a bit intimidating at first, but with proper preparation and research, it can be a smooth process.

Remember to always check the airline policies beforehand, prepare your tortoise for travel, pack necessary supplies, arrive early at the airport, board the plane calmly and smoothly, and follow up with your vet after arrival.

Here’s an interesting statistic for you – did you know that according to a recent study by the American Pet Products Association (APPA), over 13 million households in the United States own reptiles as pets? Of those households, 9.4% own turtles or tortoises! This just goes to show how popular these creatures are as pets.

So if you’re planning on traveling with your tortoise anytime soon, don’t worry – you’re definitely not alone!

In conclusion, traveling with a tortoise on a plane may seem daunting at first glance, but it doesn’t have to be. With proper planning and preparation ahead of time, you can ensure that both you and your shelled friend have a safe and stress-free journey from start to finish.

Safe travels!

Meet Debra. If you can’t imagine traveling without your furry friend, then Debra Eriksen is your go-to expert. Debra has embarked on pet-friendly journeys across more than 20 countries, making her an expert in combining wanderlust with pet ownership. Her articles provide practical tips, invaluable advice, and heartwarming stories of exploring the world with her beloved dog. Let Debra be your guide to creating unforgettable memories with your four-legged companion while exploring new horizons.

Related Posts

How to travel with a pug on a plane, how to travel with cheese on airplane.

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How to Safely Transport a Tortoise

There will be occasions during your tortoise's life when it is necessary for it to be transported.  This could be to a new home, a visit to the vets or even holiday boarding, and we have listed a few practical tips to ensure the journey is as stress free for the tortoise as possible.

A tortoise, like all animals, can easily suffer from stress in strange surroundings and will certainly settle into its new environment much more quickly if its journey is planned with a little thought from its owner.

It is advisable to use a box that is just slightly bigger than the tortoise.  Allow it enough room to be able to stretch its legs out, but not enough for it to be able to move around inside the box.  If you use a strong plastic container, please ensure this is coloured or opaque as tortoises get stressed if they can see through a barrier.

Ideally, whatever you use should have a lid (with air-holes naturally) or a cover, such as an old towel or blanket to keep the inside of the box dark.   Try and allow a deep substrate within the box:  not only will the tortoise feel safer if it can bury down, but the substrate will also act as a shock-absorber against bumps in the road!

The most preferred place to put this box is secured in the boot of your car, ensuring it cannot move around or shoot across the other side of the boot whenever you take a corner!  

The cold, dark conditions will encourage the tortoise to go to sleep very quickly and it will continue to sleep until it arrives at its destination.  When a tortoise is asleep it is unaware of how long the journey is, thus drastically reducing stress it feels.

Wherever possible, we would recommend that the tortoise is bathed and allowed to rehydrate very soon after the journey, especially if it urinated during transportation.

Happy tortoise transportation!!

• Search forums
• Tortoise Topics
• General Tortoise Discussion

How to travel with a tortoise

• Thread starter hettisurmail
• Start date May 19, 2017
• May 19, 2017

hettisurmail

I am collecting my new baby marginated tortoises tomorrow but we have to have a five hour car journey home. What should I transport them in? I really need some advice please help.  

Well-Known Member

Maybe a plastic storage box with some substrate or something non slip in it. if you do a search I'm sure there are threads about it there - possibly under roadtrip. How many are you getting?  

Grandpa Turtle 144

Where are you picking up the tort and where do you live ? ( weather )  

When they are shipped they are packed in a insulated shipping box that has air holes and then they are usually placed into a breathable bag or a smaller contained so they can't move around much and then paper or something is packed in to hold them in place. They are most of the time shipped over night. So, if it were me, I would put him in a small box with a lid and some holes in the top and upper sides with paper towels on the bottom and some loose paper towels just waded up to keep him warm incase it's cooler where you are driving or if you have to have Windows open. Then when you got him home, give him a nice long warm water soak, 20-30 minutes, then into his home with some food and his bowl of water and leave him be until the next day.  

the Turtle Shepherd

Active member.

Grandpa Turtle 144 said: Where are you picking up the tort and where do you live ? ( weather ) Click to expand...

• May 20, 2017

Lyn W said: Maybe a plastic storage box with some substrate or something non slip in it. if you do a search I'm sure there are threads about it there - possibly under roadtrip. How many are you getting? Click to expand...

hettisurmail said: Im on my way now and I live in Scotland. It's chucking it down. Click to expand...

Ed mitch said: Chucking it down here and im all the way down in cornwall, Hope it all goes well with your tortoises Click to expand...

Grandpa Turtle 144 said: I would get some disposable hand warmers to help keep the tort warm . Click to expand...

How to travel with a tortoise Click to expand...

ethan508 said: Take more than two steps between dribbles. Have I been watching too much basketball? I traveled home from San Diego (13 hour drive) with a gold fish in plastic bag w/water and the bag in cooler once. He is still with me 2+ years later. If your pet will stay in the conditioned (heat or A/C) vehicle with you then the process is a lot easier on them as temperatures comfortable to humans aren't dangerous for tortoises for short term. It is if they have to sit in a vacant vehicle or warehouse (like when shipped) that you have double check your temperature controls. Just remember parked cars get over hot really quick on a sunny day. Oh and make sure the box or cooler the pet is in a really secure position (on the floor, wedged between the seat). Use blankets, pillows, or other gear to make sure the container is sliding around or doesn't upset. Click to expand...

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Only for airports - Sleepbox Hotel Tverskaya

• Europe    
• Russia    
• Central Russia    
• Moscow    
• Moscow Specialty Lodging    
• Capsule Hotels in Moscow    
• Sleepbox Hotel Tverskaya

Page 20 Aparthotel

Lotte Hotel Moscow

Four Seasons Hotel Moscow

Brick Design Hotel

Mercure Arbat Moscow

Mercure Moscow Baumanskaya

Palmira Business Club

Hotel Metropol Moscow

Park Inn by Radisson Izmailovo Moscow

Spoiler: you won't find any personal space (I'm not talking about dorms) for 90-100 USD in Moscow city centre, so, you can simply ignore small issues, mentioned in my feedback below if your main concern is pricing in you need a space just for sleeping. Stayed in this capsule hotel couple of times and tried several "room" types: Twin sleepbox (2700 RUR, as of May, 2013) - tiny capsule with two beds, located on a different levels (reminds me of coupe compartment in trains - bed, which is on top, is not good for those with acrophobia), no TV, very limited space for storing big travel bags, shared bathroom (but don't worry about morning queues - there's around 6-7 bathroom capsules per each living floor). Good option, if you are tight on budget and need a room only for sleeping. Double room (4300 RUB) - room with small LCD TV, private washroom, almost all usable space is occupied by the queen-size bed.The only window is located on a sloped ceiling, which is rather depressing. Keeping in mind, that there's a lot of similarly priced options form a number hotels (including several chain hotels - for ex., IBIS - 3900 RUB + tax, if you book in advance). Family room (4900 RUB) - relatively big room with two queen-size beds (one at it's normal location, another one on the washroom roof + arch window with Tverskaya st. view. Seems to be a very good proposal at it's price, besides, can easily fit four. My personal favorite - really like it's layout/design. As far as I understand, there's only one family room, so, book your stay in this room in advance. All of above mentioned options were quite clean/ linen was changed daily. As for the other hotel facilities - there are several vending machines, several wall-mounded iPads, two paid laundromats (just 150 RUR per washing cycle) and a steam iron ( free:)). Hotel staff is really friendly (Moscow chain hotel employees have to learn hospitality from those guys). Location is very thought-out - hotel is just in 5 minutes walk from Aero-Express (train from/to Sheremetyevo airport), at the same time, Moscow centre is in the walking distance (okay, you would have to walk 20-35 mins to get to a red square, but still...). NB - location is good for foodies - there's a lot of great options around - if you want a decent stake you can try nearby Torro grill or El Gaucho, if you want a good beer - head to Pilsner or Gambrinus and so on and so forth. Great spot with Caucasian/Georgian food is located next door - Saperavi (hope , hotel owners would work out some discounts with this "neighbor"). As for the negatives - plastic film, which is richly used in room deco, seems to be very easy to scratch - not sure, what hotel interiors would look like in a few years. Likewise other reviewers, I have some concerns regarding fire safety of this hotel - too many plastic is user - hopefully, owners haven't try to save on fire-protection coating.

• Sleep Quality
• Cleanliness

okay so i was curious to see what this was. basically its a box for which you pay an obnoxious amount of money. there are some much better places to stay, such as some hostels in moscow, which are much cheaper and have great atmosphere. this is a box. thats it. a very expensive box. go to a hostel, even a private would be cheaper than this.

Nice hotel with pretty small and clean rooms, good location, great service and cool design. It reminds me the '5th Element' movie. You should definitely stay here at least for one night! I have been in many countries, but I have never seen such original minimalistic design. Even the single room is very functional and comfortable.

The first capsule hotel in Moscow. Great location. The best choice if you need to sleep in the city center. Small clean rooms at a reasonable price. Great design. The only negative - the absence of an en suite shower room. You have to use one of several on the floor.

Well, I was stranded in Moscow and my favourite sheraton down the road did not have any rooms, so i stumbled upon this little hotel. At first I was alarmed at how small the rooms are, but then, if you are not claustrophobic its a good sleep for a reasonable budget. I took the double rooms with en-suite facilities. Enjoyed. Would probably do this again. Very clean, if you need a place to sleep - this is the place.

Fedoskino Lacquer Boxes

Fedoskino Lacquer Boxes come from a small town 25 km. north of Moscow and the oldest existing school of lacquer painting, Fedoskino. During the 18th century, Fedoskino painters had made their mark on the world of icon painting. Because of the religious themes of their work and government restrictions, they turned to painting lacquer boxes. Depicting scenes of everyday life and work, beautiful landscapes, and portraits is what defines Fedoskino Lacquer Boxes, unlike the other schools of lacquer box painting of folk art and fairytales. We have a large collection of Fedoskino Lacquer boxes and information to go along with our boxes. Now, after many trips to Fedoskino and meeting many of the master artists, we have grown to love this particular school, their artists, and their talents.

Our pilgrimage to FEDOSKINO , a name representative of the entire artistry as well as the birthplace of the Lacquer Miniatures, was an extraordinary experience. We watched the artisans use brushes so fine, made out of a squirrel's tail, and using a magnifying glass to achieve perfection in the most intricate areas of their compositions.

Artists from FEDOSKINO have a more realistic style than the other villages, as seen in their portraits, figurative and landscape compositions. We are very proud to be able to offer these personally selected Russian Lacquer Boxes to you at very AFFORDABLE prices due to our DIRECT IMPORTING at our Gallery.

We have available a large selection of Fedoskino miniature boxes as well as special commissions. Each Box comes with a certificate of authenticity. Please inquire at L.P. Cline Gallery.

Also see our Palekh Lacquer Boxes .

Man fined $35,000 for illegally importing turtles in boxes labelled 'children's building blocks'

Zhongmin zheng, 42, of calgary pleaded guilty to 2 offences.

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Two years after border officials discovered live turtles, turtle eggs and equipment to breed turtles in packages marked as "children's building blocks," a Calgary man has been fined $35,000 for the illegal importation and sale of the specimens after admitting to federal offences. 

Zhongmin Zheng, 42, pleaded guilty last week to two charges under the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of Interprovincial Trade Act.

The investigation that led to the charges involved turtles covertly marked with UV ink and an undercover wildlife officer posing as a Canada Post employee.

The reptile racket was uncovered on May 24, 2022, when the Canada Border Services Agency found two boxes of live turtles at a Canada Post mail centre in Mississauga, Ont. 

Details of the offences come from an agreed statement of facts filed as part of Zheng's guilty pleas in court last week. 

The packages had arrived from China and were addressed to Zheng's Calgary home

Wildlife officers from Environment and Climate Change Canada were called in.

Declared as 'children's building blocks'

The investigation revealed that between Jan. 1 and May 23, 2022, Zheng had imported eight packages from China, declared as "children's building blocks."

Two packages had been delivered to Zheng's home, two were at the Mississauga facility, three were en route to Alberta and one was still en route from China. 

The shipments arrived in cooler boxes and Tupperware containers. 

Investigators obtained search warrants and examined the packages held at the Mississauga and Calgary mail centres. Inside the shipments, they discovered turtles, eggs, turtle stickers and "various items identified as being needed for turtle husbandry."

One package had freshly hatched turtles. Another contained a dead turtle.

Wildlife officer goes undercover with UV-inked turtles

None of the shipments contained permits from Canada or China.

Environment Canada officers then applied a unique number to each turtle and egg using UV ink visible only with the use of a UV light.

Investigators also obtained an order requiring Canada Post employees to "provide all reasonable assistance" to conduct a "controlled delivery."

On May 27, 2022, an undercover wildlife officer posing as a delivery person rang the doorbell at Zheng's home in the northwest Calgary community of Scenic Acres. 

A woman answered, identified herself as Zheng's wife and handed the packages to her husband.

Three hours later, officers arrested Zheng for illegal importation and possession of the turtles. 

Calgary Zoo helps out

The investigators then carried out a search warrant on Zheng's home. 

They seized 53 live turtles, 33 eggs and two dead turtles — all of which were in the basement. 

Investigators noted a "strong ammonia smell."

• Vancouver man fined $18K for attempting to smuggle turtles into Canada in duffle bag
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"The water in the terrariums was a yellow-brown colour and contained suspended solid waste," according to the agreed statement of facts.

Officers found the UV-inked turtles, which had been taken out of the shipping packaging and placed with other turtles in various terrariums.

The seized turtles and eggs were brought to the Calgary Zoo, which set up spaces designed for reptiles, with temperature and humidity controls.

Kijiji ads for turtles 

The zoo kept one eastern box turtle and one pink-bellied side-necked turtle while the others were donated to Canada's Dinosaur Park and Reptile Sanctuary in Indian River, Ont.

Zoo officials noted some of the turtles had small bite wounds on their necks but otherwise "had no significant health abnormalities."

The seized eggs were euthanized "by being plunged in liquid nitrogen."

Invasive species of turtles pose 'great threat' to native species of turtles, says wildlife coordinator

Some of the turtles and eggs were determined to fall into a category of "species not necessarily threatened with extinction but in which trade must be controlled" under the Convention on the International Trade of Endangered Species.

Through further investigation, officers discovered Zheng had 10 active Kijiji ads selling turtles. 

3 years to pay fine 

Each turtle sold for between $100 and $300 with buyers in several provinces.

Forensic searches of Zheng's electronic devices showed he had sold snapping turtles, an eastern mud turtle, a red cheeked mud turtle, a common musk turtle, a razorback musk turtle and 10 golden thread turtles.

In an interview with officers, Zheng said he'd been importing turtles since 2021 and disclosed that sometimes the turtles died from fighting or temperature and humidity issues.

• Missing snapper a cautionary tale about keeping wild turtles as pets, animal experts say
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles behind pet turtle boom, expert says

He also admitted he knew selling snapping turtles was illegal.

After hearing the plea, negotiated by defence lawyer Greg Dunn and prosecutor Omelia Tedesco-White, Justice Bruce Fraser gave Zheng three years to pay his $35,000 fine. 

Zheng is banned from owning any live animal for two years.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

CBC Calgary crime reporter

Meghan Grant is a justice affairs reporter. She has been covering courts, crime and stories of police accountability in southern Alberta for more than a decade. Send Meghan a story tip at [email protected] or follow her on Twitter.

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French Air Controller Strike

Affected Airports - City , State Association:

• Paris  Charles De Gaulle, France  (CDG)

For complete details View

American Airlines has implemented a special exception policy to our travel partners that is now available for our mutual customers due to French Air Controller Strike Our Travel Notice exception policies on American are also available when ticketed to/from/through on our Joint Business partners: This applies to both prime and codeshare flights as shown below:

Inventory Requirements

Lowest Inventory, Same Cabin

If original inventory is not available rebook lowest inventory available in the same ticketed cabin. As a reminder, customers that do not hold a Basic Economy fare should never be booked into B inventory.

Basic Economy -

• Must be booked in B inventory only. If B inventory is not available, then an alternate flight must be selected. Advance Purchase and Ticket Change restrictions are waived.

Instant Upsell -

Refer to Travel Notice Policy - Travel Agency Guidelines for rebooking guidelines and Endorsement Box requirement when the customer purchased Instant Upsell (IU) directly with American on aa.com . IU PNRs contain the following SSRs:

• OTHS AGENCY RETAINS CONTROL OF TKT FOR REISSUES
• OTHS INSTANT UPSELL ANCILLARY EMD ISSUED 001xxxxxxxxxx

Refer to Exceptions to Fare Rules .

Note: If customers are unable to rebook or reissue their ticket within the given timeline, they can cancel their reservation and use the value of the ticket toward the purchase of a new ticket; all rules and restrictions apply. Travel must commence no later than one year from the date of original issuance.

Endorsement Box Requirements

• Refer to individual Travel Notice for Event Name
• Ticket Reissue required. This is the only required verbiage and supersedes all other information.

Instant Upsell (IU) tickets must use waiver code: TNADV/IU when rebooking in the Instant Upsell Inventory IU PNRs contain the following SSRs:

Refer to Travel Notice Policy - Travel Agency Guidelines for Endorsement Box requirement when the customer purchased Instant Upsell (IU) directly with American on aa.com .

Changes to Origin/Destination - Not Allowed

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300-Mile Radius Only - Allowed

• Within same country
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Basic Economy Short-haul fares

book in B inventory only.If B inventory is not available, then an alternate flight must be selected.

Changes to Connection City

Changes to Co-Terminal

Changes to Co-terminal and MAC airports on AA Prime and AA*/Codeshare flights are allowed

• Co-terminal & MAC Airports are considered the same routing.  

Reissue Policy Information

American Airlines will waive change fees and travel agents may rebook and reissue tickets provided the below guidelines are met and applied:

• Ticket issued on the following ticket stock: AA 001, AY 105, BA 125, El053, IB 075, JL 131, QF 081
• Applies to AA*/ one world flights
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• Advance Purchase requirement waived
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• When changes to the outbound travel occur, the unaffected return date may be changed to protect the original length of the trip. The return travel must be booked in the original class of service (inventory).

SalesLink Request

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• Ticket Reissue required

Endorsement Box requirement: 23APR24A or the exchange will be subject to a debit memo

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• Cancel their itinerary and apply the value of the original ticket towards the purchase of a new ticket for travel commencing within 1 year from the date of original issuance
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When the flight is not cancelled or the length of delay is 90 minutes or less , a refund does not apply:

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• If a ticket has already been reissued by American Airlines or the ticket is partially used, travel agents must submit the refund request online at https://prefunds.aa.com/refunds/

American Airlines will continue to monitor this Travel Notice Exception Advisory and adjust this policy if needed. Changes will be posted on AA.com and www.saleslink.aa.com reference. Please check these sources frequently for the most up to date information.

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• Group reservations must be changed by AA Group & Meeting Travel
• Information contained on this web site is subject to change at any time without notice. American Airlines shall not be liable for any consequences resulting from your reliance on the information.