Desert tortoises are slow-moving nocturnal reptiles that spend most of their time in shaded areas like shrubs or rocks. To stay safe during hot desert climates, they dig burrows for protection from both intense sunlight and predators alike.
Tortoises typically feed on native grasses, leaves and flowers. Captive tortoises should only be fed natural foods in captivity.
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Natural Foods
Desert tortoises are herbivores and can be fed a variety of natural foods. They consume cacti, shrubs, grasses as well as fruit and flowers.
Desert tortoises have evolved to survive in dry environments, unlike tropical tortoises. They spend much of their time underground and can rely on their burrows for warmth and protection during wintertime.
Tortoises tend to drink a lot of water, so it’s essential that they have access to enough. They will dig holes in the ground and drink from them as needed.
Seeds
Seeds are an essential source of sustenance for desert tortoises and play an integral role in habitat restoration efforts. Unfortunately, invasive species and wildfires in the Mojave Desert are decimating native plant communities, severely impacting tortoise habitat.
Tortoises dig burrows underground that provide protection from summer’s extreme heat and rain. Additionally, these tunnels store water in their bladders until needed.
Cactus is an excellent source of water for desert tortoises. Aloe vera, another natural forage plant they can eat, is another beneficial source of calcium and vitamins B-12, E, and K.
Fruits
Desert tortoises can be fed a variety of fruit, but the quantity should be limited. Furthermore, high-protein foods like meat, insects, dog or cat food and monkey biscuits should not be given as these may lead to shell abnormalities and kidney disease in desert tortoises.
In addition to fruits, desert tortoises should be provided a nutrient-rich diet of natural plants. This can be achieved by allowing them to forage in their enclosure or yard and clearing away any old or undesirable vegetation as they discover it.
Tortoises produce fecal pellets in addition to food that indicate the health of their animal. If these are loose, runny, or contain mucous, this could indicate an issue and should be sought veterinary assistance for resolution.
Vegetables
Desert tortoises primarily feed on plants, so it’s essential that your pet’s diet closely mirrors that of these animals. Their food should be high in fiber and low in fat, protein and sugar.
Their diet should primarily consist of grasses such as alfalfa, bermuda and deer grass. Other suitable plant foods include dandelion, globemallow, nopal (Opuntia cactus) and plantain.
Fruits can be beneficial to tortoises; however, it’s essential that they only get a small amount on a regular basis. Tortoises don’t digest fruits well and this could lead to digestive issues so be cautious when giving them fruit.
Tortoises require a diet with plenty of water content. This can come from various sources such as fresh plants and leafy vegetables.
Water
Water is one of the most vital nutrients for tortoises to have. Not only does it aid with hydration, but it can also be used for temperature regulation purposes.
Your desert tortoise should always have access to a shallow dish of water that is easy for them to climb out of. The water should be lukewarm but not so hot that it comes up above their chin.
Your tortoises can also get their water needs from natural weeds and grasses. Examples include parsley, dandelion leaves, collard greens and alfalfa.