Indian Star Tortoises

Please note that images of tortoises are for illustration purposes only to show how the shell ‘patterns’ develop over time. Each tortoise will have slightly different markings/patterns/colouration on their shells to those in the photos.

Our INDIAN STAR TORTOISES are captive bred by us here at HappyTortoises.

They have been given the very best start in life with as close to their natural diet as possible (50% grasses/hays and 50% tortoise-safe weeds and flowers).

Each and every tortoise is closely monitored to ensure optimal health with regular growth, weight and health checks.

Indian star tortoises are a medium breed of tortoise, and need lots of space to be healthy - our adults are between 5-9” long.

They do not hibernate, so require heat and light all year around.

They should be kept in an open-topped tortoise table (please note that vivariums are not suitable for this breed of tortoise)

Indian star tortoises are particularly sensitive to incorrect temperatures so it is very important to closely monitor temperatures in the tortoise table to make sure temperatures are within the safe ranges. Detailed safe temperature ranges are on the care sheets.

UVB is also critical to your tortoises health and it helps to allow vitamin D3 to be absorbed into your tortoise which in turn works with the calcium in a healthy diet to allow their bones and shells to be strong and healthy (and will also help prevent metabolic bone disease). We sell suitable UVB basking bulbs in our shop.

Supplements (calcium powder and a vitamin/mineral powder) should be sprinkled on their food as per the care sheet.

Fresh water should be given every day, as well as regular bathing of your tortoise to help keep them hydrated. Frequency and details of how to bath is on the care sheet and in our FAQs.

The recommended substrate is 50:50 mix of organic top soil (no chemicals) with playpit sand as this is as close to their natural habitat as well as helps with maintining the correct humidity levels in your tortoise table.

We also sell tortoise tables (suitable for young tortoises) as well as complete starter kits that have been carefully selected by us for the breed of tortoise you are purchasing.

We will need to see photos of your setup (if purchasing elsewhere) and confirmation that temperatures are within the safe ranges before we can arrange collection or delivery of your tortoise. Please see our FAQ on collection and delivery for further information.
*If you would like to ‘Reserve a tortoise’, please see our Terms and Conditions for further information before selecting this option.

For more information on this beautiful and gentle breed of tortoise and their care requirements, please visit our Tortoise Breeds and Indian Star Tortoise caresheet pages.

Here is a video of how to get set up for your new tortoise arrival. All of the things you need to care for your tortoise can be purchased in our shop.