hi im new to all this we went to are pet shop and was adviced by all the vivriums and lights for heat etc but after doing research everything we have been adviced doesnt seem to be correct especially the virrums.instead we have bought a table as far as heating and lights go we have not got them yet as the pet shop we saying we needed so many lights and mats we were to confused.we intend to get either a horsefield or herman after research i think we need a basking light and uv tube both kepted at one end of the table and heat at one end to be around 20-30 is this correct or am i wrong i dont want to get the tortosie until everything is set up and heat etc is 100% correct so i dont put him in danger thank you for your time

Hi Cassey

You're quite right. Firstly it is best to steer clear of pet shops completely. The tortoises are invariably imported and are much more likely to arrive with problems.

Hermanns and Horsfields are a good first choice, you might also like to consider Iberas or Marginated tortoises.

There are species specific care sheets here which are worth reading, once you have definietly decided what species to keep (you may wish to open these to take a look at the photos of the various species):-

http://www.tortoise-protection-group.org.uk/site/80.asp

Vivariums are not suitable for tortoises, particularly these species. Here are some ideas for set-ups:-

 http://www.tortoise-protection-group.org.uk/site/58.asp

Diet:-
http://www.tlady.clara.net/TortGuide/Diet.htm#plantlist

Despite what pet shops promote - tortoise pellets shouldn't be fed to these tortoises as they are far too high in protein

Lighting/heating:-
http://www.kimbosreptileworld.co.uk/megaray-120w-self-ballasted-p-145.html

This system is far superior to using separate heat & UVB sources. The quality is better and lasts much longer

Lamp Holder:-

http://www.kimbosreptileworld.co.uk/clamp-lamp-p-34.html

Lastly, here is a link to our list of recommended breeders (Hobbyists):-

http://www.tortoise-protection-group.org.uk/site/70.asp

HTH
Kindest Regards

Darren