Elongated Tortoise
The elongated tortoise (Indotestudo elongata) gets its name from its long, oval-shaped shell. Adults reach 12–14 inches and live 40–60+ years. Native to Southeast Asia (India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia), they live in humid forests, leaf litter, and monsoon woodlands. They are shy, slow-moving, and spend much time hiding. Mostly solitary. They are crepuscular (most active early morning and late afternoon). Their shape helps them slip through dense forest undergrowth.
Fun facts: They blush—skin around their head can turn pink during breeding season; they are excellent at recognizing routine and feeding times.
ENCLOSURE
Ideal size: One adult needs at least a 6 ft x 3 ft indoor enclosure; larger is better. Outdoors is ideal in warm climates (like Miami). Use cypress mulch, soil, leaf litter, or coco husk for humidity retention and digging. Provide hides and shaded areas.
Temps: Basking 88–92°F, cool side 75–80°F, ambient 80–85°F, humidity 60–80%. They require UVB (10–12%).
Ideal range: Prefers warm, humid climates 75–90°F. Can tolerate brief dips to 65°F but should not be kept cold. Over 95°F requires extra shade and moisture.
DIET & HYDRATION
Elongated tortoises are primarily herbivores, with a small amount of fruit and occasional protein in the wild.
Weekly Feeding (adult):
• Daily: Large handful of mixed greens
• 3–4× weekly: Vegetables
• 2× weekly: Fruits (small amounts)
• 1× weekly: Optional protein (cooked egg, low-fat dog food, or mushroom) for individuals that need it—avoid overuse
Food Options:
Staples: Spring mix, collard greens, mustard greens, endive, escarole, cactus pads, hibiscus leaves/flowers, mulberry leaves
Vegetables: Squash, zucchini, bell pepper, green beans, carrots (small portions)
Fruits (treats): Papaya, mango, banana with skin, berries, melon
No Feed/Toxic: Onion, garlic, avocado, rhubarb, iceberg lettuce, high-oxalate greens daily, dog/cat food as a regular diet
Hydration: Provide a large shallow water dish for soaking and drinking. Soak juveniles 3× weekly; adults 1× weekly. Maintain humidity with regular misting.
Supplements: Calcium with D3 2–3× weekly, multivitamin 1× weekly.
Behavior note: They often rush food and may overeat fruit—keep fruit controlled.
HEALTH
Prone to respiratory infections if kept too dry or cold, shell rot from poor substrate, internal parasites (common in wild imports), and dehydration-related kidney issues. Must maintain humidity and regular soaks.
HANDLING
Elongated tortoises stress easily with excessive handling. They tolerate calm handling but prefer minimal interaction. Always support the entire body and avoid flipping or squeezing the shell edges. Loud environments may scare them.
For shows: Not ideal. They are shy, may urinate/defecate when stressed, and do not enjoy repeated handling. They also can dry out or overheat quickly. Not recommended for kids to hold.
SHOW ANIMAL REQUIREMENTS
• Super friendly/handleable: No – shy and stress-prone
• Not messy: No – may poop when stressed
• Multiple shows per day: No
• Can be boxed all day: No, needs humidity
• Good with heat: Moderate, but dries out fast
Conclusion: Not suitable for Shadow’s Reptiles show roster.