hi i'm kirzi97, i'm new here and don't know much about tortoises. i don't have a tortoise but am interested in getting one. i have 2 pet gerbils (i dont know if this affects them) but i was wondering, how much do they cost? not for an expensive one, just the cheapest or any one will do. also any advice will be appreciated, thanks

Hi &  to the group.

The cost of tortoises may vary considerably, it is also important to take into consideration the cost of the equipment, as “good quality” UVB lighting/heating is usually more than expected.

http://www.tortoise-protection-group.org.uk/site/60.asp?thissection=4

The most important thing is to obtain your tortoises from a respected UK breeder, where you know the tortoise is definitely captive bred and is healthy. Good breeders will offer good ongoing advice.

UK Breeders list here:-

http://www.tortoise-protection-group.org.uk/site/files/BreederslistAugust2008.pdf

It’s usually best to consider which species you’d like to keep and to have a good read as to their requirements..

Spur-Thighs

http://www.tortoise-protection-group.org.uk/site/122.asp

http://www.tortoise-protection-group.org.uk/site/89.asp

Hermanns

http://www.tortoise-protection-group.org.uk/site/88.asp

Marginated

http://www.tortoise-protection-group.org.uk/site/90.asp

& Horsfields

http://www.tortoise-protection-group.org.uk/site/87.asp

are generally accepted to be a better option for newer keepers.

Hope this helps

Kindest Regards

Darren

You can also browse www.thetortoisehouse  and www.tortoises.net  both are great for information on tortoises from hatchling to adult.

Hi Kirzi97

 to our forum.  I see Darren and Sandy have given you lots of advice already.

You can expect to pay more from pet shops and sometimes you may end up with expensive vet bills too if the animal is carrying any kind of disease or parasites.  Breeders are usually slightly cheaper but their animals are healthy and less like to need veterinary care. 

Everyone has a slightly different price so I can't give you a definitive answer, but you can expect to pay around £100 per hatchling tortoise from a breeder.  On top of this you will need to consider the purchase of necessary equipment like heating and UVB lighting and also buy or make a suitable enclosure/pen for your tortoise.  It all adds up I'm afraid.

Have you read our section on buying tortoises from a pet shop (which we don't recommend) you can find it in the left hand margin under the heading 'Breeders and Vets'?

HTH

Helen

Hallo,

Having you considered rehoming a tortoise once you have decided which you would like?  

J.

Thanks everyone for the information and advice, i think i'll ait abit before i get a tortoise, ihave too much to do already i wouldn't want it to die. Thanks anyway, bye!