The Leopard Tortoise is the second largest African mainland tortoise (the African Spurred Tortoise (Geochelone sulcata) is larger). It is not unusual to find specimens 35 to 45 cm in length and weighing over 15kg. G. pardalis are found in the wild from Sudan and Ethiopia and extend their range throughout southern Africa.
Captive Environment
G. pardalis should be allowed access to outdoor grazing and natural light as much as is possible. However, adequate shade should be readily available to allow a retreat from the sun during the warmest parts of the day. Common sense should always be exercised when designing an outdoor pen. Tortoises in general are excellent escape artists and a pen should be reinforced both above and below ground. Minimal daytime captive temperatures of 68F are necessary for normal activity levels. Nighttime temperatures may drop to 57F. Of course, temperatures in excess of 68F are safe, as long as there is opportunity for the tortoise to retreat to a cooler part of the enclosure. This may be accomplished with a basking lamp (or ceramic heating element) on one end of the indoor enclosure. Tortoises that are not allowed access to direct sunlight should probably be exposed to an artificial UV-light source (Vita-lite, or Chromolux) for 5 hours per day. Remember that the UV produced by these lights will not pass through glass or plastic, and that UV-production will wane after approximately six-months of bulb life (even though the bulb will still light with visible light).
Diet
G. pardalis is primarily a grazing herbivore. In the wild, they have been observed eating primarily grasses and succulents (ie. Prickly pear). In captivity, a diet very high in fiber is essential. Feeding natural grasses and weeds, cabbage, and other coarse green leafy materials will work well for a captive diet. This may be supplemented with occasional fruits and more frequently other vegetables. Commercial tortoise diets are available, but should not be used exclusively. For G. pardalis a high-fiber diet is needed (Mazuri Tortoise Food). A fresh supply of water should be available at all times. Even a good diet should be supplemented with a reptile vitamin powder (Vionate, Nekton-REP, Nekton-REP-Color) sprinkled on the food.
Michael S. Samuels, D.V.M.
Central Animal Hospital
