Turtles are one of the easiest reptiles to find that can inspire curiosity and fascination in reptile keepers both young and old. Whether it’s because of their slow but determined nature or the built-in defense/house they carry on their backs, tortoises find their way into our homes and hearts. We are going to take a look at the top five tortoises for sale on the market today and some of the reasons why they are there.

The African spurred tortoise

African spurred tortoises, also known as sulcate tortoises, are one of the most commonly kept pet tortoises. They are one of the medium to large sized turtles that are easy to keep and fairly inexpensive to purchase. Adult males will reach a very impressive size of fifty to eighty pounds and for keepers who have access to an enclosed plot of land they can make a very impressive pet. They are prairie tortoises, so a diet of hay and greenery along with a mix of prepared tortoise food will keep them happy and healthy for years.

red footed tortoise

Red feet are one of the most exotic looking of the medium sized land turtles due to their name, red scaly legs and head, as well as a beautifully colored shell which is usually black and yellow. They are also one of the least expensive tortoises on the market, which along with their appearance makes them a highly sought after reptile pet. They are native to northern South America and live on the edges of forests where they feed on a varied diet of vegetables, fruits, small insects, eggs, and carrion. In captivity, they can be kept indoors in a large tortoise enclosure or outdoors on a shaded patch of land. Red-footed tortoises and their close relative, the yellow-footed tortoise, are a big part of the reptile experience.

the russian tortoise

Russian tortoises are one of the smallest tortoises found in the wild and live in the arid low mountainous regions of Pakistan throughout Southeast Asia. These hardy creatures can handle a wide variety of temperatures and can survive on a steady diet of vegetation, hay, and premixed turtle food. Due to their ability to handle harsh weather, they can adapt to most indoor areas and also acclimate to humidity. Russian tortoises rarely exceed eight to ten inches in length, making them very likely candidates for an indoor pet tortoise.

mediterranean turtles

Mediterranean countries are home to a number of small, beautifully patterned pet tortoises. These include Greek tortoises, Herman’s tortoises, and marginated tortoises. These lively little creatures have more specific temperature and humidity requirements than Russian tortoises, but are much more attractive and sought after in many ways. The price reflects this and these small size turtles are in the next level of cost to obtain.

the star tortoises

Star tortoises are small-sized tortoises that get their name from the brightly colored yellow and black shells that are covered with multifaceted star-shaped designs. They come from various countries including India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar and Burma. These beautiful animals are highly sought after by keepers in the United States, as well as in China and Japan, which is why they are one of the most expensive pet tortoises on the market.