Tortoise

Picking up Princess Leia when she was just a tiny hatchling feels like yesterday! Now, at two years old, she's already quite a character, and I love seeing her distinct patterned shell. I still remember when I could hold her gently in one hand, just like in some of my early photos. Raising an African spurred tortoise like her has been an incredible journey, and I’ve learned so much, especially about setting up the perfect baby sulcata enclosure. When Princess Leia was a tiny baby, her enclosure was much simpler. I started with a large plastic tote, often called a 'tortoise table,' which allowed for good air circulation and easy cleaning. It was crucial to maintain a warm, humid environment – I used a ceramic heat emitter and a shallow water dish she could easily get in and out of. Substrate choice was also key; I opted for coco coir mixed with cypress mulch to hold humidity and allow for burrowing. As she grew, the enclosure had to expand, and I quickly realized they need a lot of space! For anyone thinking about a baby sulcata, planning for their monumental growth (they can live 70+ years and get huge!) is essential. It's been a learning curve for me too, adapting her home as she grows bigger and stronger. Sulcata tortoise shell care is something I pay close attention to. Princess Leia’s shell is her protection, and keeping it healthy means preventing pyramiding and ensuring good overall growth. I make sure she gets plenty of calcium and vitamin D3 through her diet and appropriate UV-B lighting. A good soak a few times a week is also important, especially when they're young, to help with hydration and keep their scutes healthy and smooth. I've heard some people gently brush their shells, but I mostly let her do her own thing and focus on providing the right environment and nutrition. It’s all about consistency and observation. Watching Princess Leia grow from two years old towards her fifth birthday is so exciting. African spurred tortoises grow rapidly in their first few years, and you really see the changes. I'm already thinking about what her life will be like at 5 years old – she'll be even bigger and more independent! They need expansive outdoor enclosures with plenty of room to graze and dig once they're large enough and the climate is suitable. I'm constantly researching and adapting her care to meet her evolving needs. It's truly a long-term commitment, but the joy she brings makes every effort worth it. If you're considering one of these amazing creatures, be prepared for a lifetime of adventure and learning! My journey with Princess Leia has been incredibly rewarding, and I can't wait to see what the next few years bring.