Tortoise Advice & News

Expert guides, legal information, and husbandry tips.

Buying a Tortoise in the UK: The Essential Beginner's Guide
January 27, 2026

Buying a Tortoise in the UK: The Essential Beginner's Guide

Thinking of buying a tortoise? Read our essential beginner's guide on costs, legal requirements (Article 10), and how to avoid illegal imports.

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How Much Does a Tortoise Actually Cost in the UK? (2026 Price Guide)
January 25, 2026

How Much Does a Tortoise Actually Cost in the UK? (2026 Price Guide)

A breakdown of the real cost of owning a tortoise in the UK in 2026. Prices for Hermanns, Horsfield, and full setup costs including UV lighting and heating bill

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The Complete Legal Guide to UK Tortoise Ownership (2026)
January 24, 2026

The Complete Legal Guide to UK Tortoise Ownership (2026)

Don't get caught out by CITES laws. A complete guide to Annex A vs Annex B, Article 10 certificates, and microchipping rules for UK tortoise keepers.

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The Sugar Trap: Why Fruit & Tomatoes Are Bad for UK Tortoises
January 24, 2026

The Sugar Trap: Why Fruit & Tomatoes Are Bad for UK Tortoises

It might look cute, but feeding strawberries or tomatoes to a Hermann's or Horsfield tortoise can cause serious health issues. We explain the science of gut hea

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Buying a Tortoise? The 5-Minute Health Check You Must Do
January 24, 2026

Buying a Tortoise? The 5-Minute Health Check You Must Do

Don't buy a sick animal. Whether you are buying from a breeder or a private seller, use this 5-point checklist to ensure your new tortoise is healthy.

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Hermann’s vs. Horsfield: Which Tortoise is Right for You?
January 24, 2026

Hermann’s vs. Horsfield: Which Tortoise is Right for You?

The two most popular UK tortoises head-to-head. We compare personality, care needs, and the crucial legal paperwork differences between Hermann's and Horsfield

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The 5 Most Common Mistakes New Tortoise Keepers Make
January 24, 2026

The 5 Most Common Mistakes New Tortoise Keepers Make

Are you making these errors? From glass tanks to dangerous diets, we cover the top 5 mistakes new UK tortoise owners make and how to fix them.

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Tortoise Table or Vivarium? The Best Setup for UK Keepers
January 23, 2026

Tortoise Table or Vivarium? The Best Setup for UK Keepers

Confused about tortoise housing? We explain the difference between open tables, glass tanks, and wooden vivariums, and which is best for the UK climate.

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Which Tortoise is Right for You? The Best Beginner Species in the UK
January 23, 2026

Which Tortoise is Right for You? The Best Beginner Species in the UK

Choosing your first tortoise? We compare the best beginner species in the UK, including Hermann's, Horsfield's, and Spur-thighed tortoises. Find your perfect ma

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Where to Buy and Sell Tortoises in the UK: A Safety Guide
January 23, 2026

Where to Buy and Sell Tortoises in the UK: A Safety Guide

Looking to buy or sell a tortoise in the UK? We compare breeders, pet shops, and online marketplaces to help you avoid scams and find healthy, legal tortoises.

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Is It Illegal to Own a Tortoise in the UK? A Guide to CITES & Article 10
January 23, 2026

Is It Illegal to Own a Tortoise in the UK? A Guide to CITES & Article 10

Do you need a licence to own a tortoise in the UK? We clarify CITES laws, Article 10 certificates for Annex A species, and the legal requirements for buying or

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