what is a good beginner tortoise for a 14 year old?

[Logan93]

i was wondering what is the best kind of tortoise to get when you live in minnesota?
i am looking for one that doesnt get bigger than 12 inches and costs under $300.
i dont know much about tortoises yet, but i've been looking at different types and i thought maybe hermanns tortoise or red footed tortoise? i dont really know how much those cost though.
i want one with a round shell though.. not a flat one. well thats pretty much it and i would love any tips you guys give me. thanks!

[LISA127]

I would go for the hermanns tortoise or greek tortoise. I haven't owned these myself, but I've heard the hermanns is the best pet tortoise and is very hearty.

[joeysgreen]

If $300 is your budget, I wouldn't get a tortoise at all. Sorry to burst your bubble :( They are one of the higher maintaince reptiles to keep, both with time and money.

However, I agree that any of the testudo or ex-testudo (agrionemys) would be great tortoise pets for people willing to make a long term commitment (50yrs+). Check out www.chelonia.org for lots of information about turtles and tortoises in general.

Ian

[peterm15]

i agree with costs.. they cost alot to keep... turtles cost more though..

both a hermans and greek would be great.. redfoots are a little bigger.. but for halfway inbetween.. try a cherry head.. a little smaller that redfoot and looks alot like them.

in the USA torts are "cheap" for what youd pay 200 for.. ill pay 800 ( retail for both prices.)

[Wu-Gwei]

I would not recommend a tort for a beginner, due to the high cost of the animal ($300 minimum) and set-up (enclosure, UV lighting, heat lamp, heat pad). Depending on species, feeding can be tricky and you need experience or else your tort will be malnourished and develop growth deffects (i.e. pyramiding and other bone related problems). You'll need to read up lots before you can pick up a tort. It's not like a guinea pig or pet rat. If your kid likes chelonians, try aquatic turtles, where feeding and husbandry is much easier, but once again the set-up will be high as well, but the animal can be cheaper $50-200 for common aquatic turtles.

Cheers,
JJ ;)