The Indian Star Tortoise.





Description: Star Tortoises have a yellow or tan head. Females
are much larger than males and have a shell which is
much broader.
Lifespan: Up to 80 years
Estimated Size: Up to 12"
Natural Location: India

Feeding & Water.
The best way to feed your Star Tortoise is to allow it long periods of grazzing time. It will happily forage around your yard for several hoursa day. If you are going to allow your tortoise to graze in your yard you will not be able to use any sort of pesticides on your lawn or in your garden. Greens such as turnips and collards can be fed a couple of times per week. In addition, carrots, potatos and squash can also be offered, although this should not be done more than once per week. Some fruits such as apples, peaches, bananas and strawberries work well in smaller quantities to offer a variety in the diet of your Star Tortoise.

Temperature & Lighting.
The optimal temperature for Star Tortoises is between 75 degrees F and 85 degrees F during the day and between 75 degrees F and 78 degrees F at night. Since Star Tortoises are not supposed to hibernate in the winter, you must provide them with a warm enough temperature that they do not attempt to do so. In the winter ensure that the daytime temperature does not dip below 70 degrees F during the day. A drop in nightime temperature is acceptable as long as it is not more than about 5 degrees F.

Housing.
If their enclosure is too damp it can easily lead to skin infections in Star Tortoises as they are not adapted for wet conditions.
Although Star Tortoises are not that large, they require a fair bit of room to graze as they like to move around a fair bit. Keeping your Star Tortoise outside will provide it with plenty of room to move about. Star Tortoises are not known for their digging capabilities however you should still ensure that their enclosure does not permit escape.