Leopard Tortoise | Stigmochelys pardalis
Plan the habitat for the adult animal, with secure housing and room to carry out its natural behaviour.
At a Glance
| Origin & natural habitat |
Eastern and southern Africa; savannah and grassland. |
| Adult size |
Around 40–60 cm shell length; locality can affect final size. |
| Lifespan |
50 years or more. |
| Temperament |
Individuals vary; allow time to settle before any handling. |
| Activity |
Day-active. |
| Social needs |
House individually. |
Housing & Setup
Enclosure dimensions are length × depth × height unless stated otherwise. Plan for the adult animal; larger, suitably furnished housing is encouraged.
| Adult housing |
A large purpose-built adult habitat with several square metres of floor space; plan around 300 × 200 cm or larger, with heated shelter. |
| Enclosure type |
Large warm terrestrial habitat; Irish outdoor access is weather-dependent. |
| Temperature |
Basking around 32–35°C; warm ambient around 25–30°C, with a cooler retreat. |
| Lighting & UVB |
Provide a regular day/night cycle with darkness at night. Select species-appropriate UVB, with shaded retreats and safe lamp distances. |
| Humidity / moisture |
Provide a warm humid retreat, particularly for growing animals, plus ventilated drier areas. |
| Substrate |
Species-appropriate, pesticide-free substrate; avoid aromatic woods. |
| Furnishings & filtration |
Secure hides and furnishings; drinking water must remain accessible. |
Behaviour & Compatibility
Usually best housed individually; a heavy adult must be supported safely when moved.
Feeding & Nutrition
High-fibre grasses, suitable weeds and leafy foods form the staple. Avoid meat and fruit-heavy diets. Use appropriate calcium/vitamins matched to UVB and provide shallow fresh water.
Routine Care
Check temperatures, humidity, appetite and behaviour daily. Replace drinking water and remove waste promptly. Clean bowls and contaminated furnishings regularly; monitor weight and shedding. Arrange advice from an exotics vet for persistent changes in appetite, breathing or movement.
Important Before Buying
A very large, long-lived tortoise requiring substantial indoor winter accommodation. This species does not hibernate; confirm locality, documentation and final housing before buying.
Live Animals Are Click & Collect Only
We do not ship live animals. Order online and wait for confirmation that your animal is ready before collecting from Newlands Home and Garden Centre, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. Have the enclosure prepared and its conditions checked before collection.