Meet our Shelled Friends here at BBT
African Spurred Tortoise (Centrochelys sulcata)
Spartacus, our impressive 20-year-old male Sulcata Tortoise, is a commanding presence at Black Butte Tortoise. With his massive, rugged shell and determined personality, Spartacus truly lives up to his legendary name. His strength and resilience are matched only by his gentle demeanor, making him a favorite among visitors and a vital part of our breeding program. Sulcata Tortoises, also known as African Spurred Tortoises, are the third-largest tortoise species in the world, capable of reaching over 100 pounds. Native to the arid regions of Africa, they are expert burrowers, often digging deep tunnels to escape the heat and find moisture. Their incredible adaptability and long lifespan, often exceeding 70 years, make them one of the most fascinating and enduring tortoise species.
Spartacus
Molly
Molly, our magnificent 18-year-old female Sulcata Tortoise, is a true treasure at Black Butte Tortoise. Her smooth, golden-brown shell and strong, steady demeanor showcase the grace and endurance of this remarkable species. Molly’s calm and curious personality makes her a joy to observe and a vital part of our Sulcata breeding program. Sulcata Tortoises are renowned for their ability to adapt to harsh desert climates, where they create burrows that can reach depths of 10 feet to escape the heat. These burrows not only provide shelter for the tortoise but also become habitats for other desert species, showcasing their important role in the ecosystem. With proper care, Sulcatas like Molly can thrive for over 70 years, making them a lifelong companion.
Sura
Sura, our robust 15-year-old female Sulcata Tortoise, is a standout at Black Butte Tortoise. Her striking, golden-hued shell and confident demeanor highlight the natural beauty and strength of this incredible species. Sura’s inquisitive and steady nature makes her a cherished part of our Sulcata collection and a key contributor to our breeding efforts. Sulcata Tortoises are the largest mainland tortoise species, with individuals like Sura often exceeding 100 pounds. Known for their herbivorous diet, they play a crucial role in their natural habitats by dispersing seeds and maintaining vegetation. Their ability to thrive in arid environments showcases their adaptability and resilience, making them a fascinating and enduring species.
Mira, our beautiful 15-year-old female Sulcata Tortoise, is a beloved resident at Black Butte Tortoise. Her sturdy, golden-brown shell and calm demeanor embody the resilience and grace of this remarkable species. Mira’s gentle and curious personality makes her a joy to care for and a valuable part of our breeding program. Sulcata Tortoises, also known as African Spurred Tortoises, are renowned for their burrowing behavior. They can dig extensive tunnels to escape the harsh desert heat, creating microhabitats for themselves and other animals. Their adaptability to arid conditions and long lifespan, often exceeding 70 years, make them one of the most fascinating and enduring tortoise species in the world.
Mira
Frieda
Frieda, our lovely 14-year-old female Sulcata Tortoise, is a cherished member of the Black Butte Tortoise family. Her smooth, sandy-colored shell and gentle nature reflect the beauty and resilience of this incredible species. Frieda’s curious personality and steady temperament make her a joy to care for and an essential part of our Sulcata breeding program. Sulcata Tortoises are excellent grazers, thriving on a diet primarily of grasses and weeds. This diet helps maintain their strong shells and overall health. Native to the arid regions of Africa, they are known for their remarkable ability to store water and endure long periods without hydration, showcasing their incredible adaptability to harsh climates.
Torta
Torta, our stunning 8-year-old female Sudanese Sulcata Tortoise, is a remarkable addition to Black Butte Tortoise. Her robust build and beautifully patterned shell make her a standout example of the Sudanese Sulcata, a larger and distinct regional variation of the species. Torta’s calm demeanor and inquisitive personality make her a favorite among our visitors and an important part of our breeding efforts. Sudanese Sulcata Tortoises are a larger variety of the Sulcata species, often characterized by their more pronounced spurs and broader shells. Originating from the Sudan region, they are well-adapted to hot, arid environments, using their strong legs to dig deep burrows for shelter and temperature regulation.
Burmese Black Mountain Tortoise (Manouria emys phayrei)
Betty, our impressive 10-year-old female Burmese Black Mountain Tortoise, is a remarkable member of the Black Butte Tortoise family. Known for her sleek, dark shell and powerful build, Betty exudes strength and elegance. Her calm demeanor and gentle personality make her a standout example of this extraordinary species. Burmese Black Mountain Tortoises, also known as Manouria emys phayrei, are the largest tortoise species in mainland Asia. Unlike many other tortoises, they are known for their nesting behavior, creating large, protective nests for their eggs. These intelligent and hardy tortoises can live for decades, making them an enduring symbol of nature's resilience and beauty.
Betty
Brie
Brie, our magnificent 10-year-old female Burmese Black Mountain Tortoise, is a true gem at Black Butte Tortoise. With her dark, smooth shell and robust build, Brie captures the essence of this majestic species. Her calm and observant demeanor makes her a fascinating and cherished member of our tortoise community. Burmese Black Mountain Tortoises are unique among tortoises for their maternal instincts. Females, like Brie, build and guard their nests, a behavior rare in tortoise species. Native to the forested regions of Southeast Asia, these tortoises are highly adaptable and play a crucial role in their ecosystem by dispersing seeds and maintaining habitat health.
Red-Footed Tortoises (Chelonoidis carbonarius)
Willow, our gorgeous 4-year-old Cherry Head Red Footed Tortoise, adds a touch of elegance to Black Butte Tortoise. Her distinctive cherry-red head and contrasting dark shell make her a striking example of this unique subspecies. Willow’s gentle nature and inquisitive personality make her a joy to care for and a wonderful ambassador for Cherry Head Red Footed Tortoises. Cherry Head Red Footed Tortoises are a smaller and more colorful subspecies of the Red Footed Tortoise, native to South America. Their vibrant red markings and compact size make them a favorite among tortoise enthusiasts. Like their larger counterparts, they thrive on a varied diet of fruits, vegetables, and occasional protein, which helps maintain their vibrant colors and robust health.
Willow
Bucky
Bucky, our resilient 5-year-old female Red Footed Tortoise, has a special story that makes her an integral part of Black Butte Tortoise. Despite arriving with significant pyramiding, a condition caused by poor care early in life, Bucky has been thriving under our attentive care. Her bright red and orange markings and vibrant personality are a testament to her remarkable recovery and strong spirit. Red Footed Tortoises are known for their adaptability and resilience, which makes them excellent candidates for rehabilitation and long-term care. Their shells are highly sensitive to environmental factors, emphasizing the importance of proper diet, humidity, and UV exposure to maintain smooth growth and overall health. Bucky’s progress showcases the importance of dedicated care for these beautiful creatures.
Lily
Lily, our vibrant 4-year-old female Red Footed Tortoise, is a shining star at Black Butte Tortoise. With her striking red and orange markings and a sleek, smooth shell, Lily exemplifies the beauty of her species. Her playful and curious nature makes her a joy to watch as she explores her habitat and interacts with her surroundings. Red Footed Tortoises are native to the tropical regions of South America and are known for their omnivorous diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, and small amounts of protein. Their bright markings serve not only as a form of camouflage in their colorful rainforest environment but also as an indication of their health and diet quality.
Steph, 3-year-old female Red Footed Tortoise, is a lively and cherished member of the Black Butte Tortoise family. Her striking red and orange markings on her legs and head beautifully contrast with her dark, domed shell, making her a standout among our collection. Steph’s curious and active nature makes her a joy to watch as she explores her surroundings. Red Footed Tortoises are native to South America and are known for their omnivorous diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, and even occasional protein. Their bright coloration serves as a form of camouflage in their natural rainforest habitats, blending with the colorful environment.
Steph
Penny
Penny, our beautiful 3-year-old female Red Footed Tortoise, brings charm and character to Black Butte Tortoise. With her vibrant red and orange markings and sleek, dark shell, Penny is a true testament to the striking beauty of her species. Her curious and friendly personality makes her a favorite among our visitors and a key part of our breeding program.Red Footed Tortoises are well-known for their adaptability to different environments, ranging from rainforests to drier savannas. They are also one of the few tortoise species that consume a wide variety of foods, including fruits, flowers, and small amounts of animal protein. This diverse diet contributes to their robust health and longevity, often exceeding 50 years in captivity.
Ora
Ora, our delightful 5-year-old female Red Footed Tortoise, joined the Black Butte Tortoise family on Christmas Day, making her a special holiday addition. Her festive arrival perfectly matches her vibrant red and orange markings, which beautifully complement her sleek, dark shell. Ora’s calm yet curious demeanor has quickly made her a beloved member of our tortoise community. Red Footed Tortoises are known for their social behaviors, often forming loose groups in the wild. They are highly adaptable and thrive in diverse environments, from tropical rainforests to savannas. Their colorful markings not only add to their charm but also help them blend into their natural habitats, providing both beauty and function.
Leopard Tortoises (Stigmochelys pardalis)
Skittles, our charismatic male Leopard Tortoise, hatched in January 2020, has a heartwarming backstory that makes him a special member of Black Butte Tortoise. Raised lovingly by a young girl, Skittles found his way to us when she had to leave for college and could no longer care for him. With his strikingly patterned shell resembling leopard spots and a vibrant personality to match, Skittles is truly one of a kind. Leopard Tortoises are native to the savannas of Africa and are known for their beautifully patterned shells, which provide excellent camouflage in the wild. As a grazing species, they thrive on a diet of grasses and weeds, making them essential contributors to their natural ecosystems. Leopard Tortoises can grow up to 18 inches long.
Skittles
Heidi
Heidi, our stunning high-white Paradalis Paradalis x Paradalis Babcocki Leopard Tortoise, hatched in 2020 and brings a unique elegance to Black Butte Tortoise. Originally from a reputable breeder in Iowa, Heidi boasts a striking shell pattern with brilliant white contrasts, making her an extraordinary representative of this hybrid Leopard Tortoise lineage. Her calm demeanor and graceful movements are as captivating as her appearance. Leopard Tortoises are known for their adaptability to various climates. As a species, they have the ability to travel significant distances in search of food, a trait that showcases their resilience and independence. Their eye-catching shells not only serve as natural camouflage but also make them one of the most sought-after tortoise species among enthusiasts.
Sri Lankan Indian Star Tortoise (Geochelone elegans)
At just 3 years old, Twila is a beautiful example of the Sri Lankan Indian Star tortoise, known for her striking star-patterned shell and vibrant personality. With her rich, golden hues and intricate black markings, Twila isn’t just a stunning sight; she embodies the unique and delicate beauty of her species. Sri Lankan Indian Star tortoises are not only visually captivating but also play a vital role in their ecosystem as seed dispersers, helping to maintain the health of their natural habitat. Twila, with her curious nature, is a wonderful ambassador for her kind and a perfect addition to any tortoise-loving household.
Twila
Radiated Tortoise (Astrochelys radiata)
Sahm
Meet Sahm, our vibrant 1-year-old Radiated Tortoise, a true gem at Black Butte Tortoise. With his intricate star-like shell pattern and lively personality, Sahm exemplifies the stunning beauty and grace of this critically endangered species. Despite his young age, Sahm is already showing the hallmark traits of the Radiated Tortoise: resilience, curiosity, and an eye-catching shell design that captivates everyone who sees him. Radiated Tortoises are native to the forests and scrublands of Madagascar and are known for their distinctive star-patterned shells. These tortoises are herbivores with a diet rich in grasses, making them essential for maintaining their natural ecosystem.
Ivory Sulcata Tortoise (Centrochelys sulcata)
Hansen
Hansen, our stunning 3-year-old Ivory Sulcata Tortoise, is a star here at Black Butte Tortoise. With his creamy, pale shell and gentle demeanor, Hansen embodies the rare beauty and charm of this unique Sulcata variation. At just 3 years old, he is thriving and growing steadily, showcasing the resilience and vitality that Sulcatas are known for. Ivory Sulcata Tortoises are a rare genetic variation of the African Sulcata, the third-largest tortoise species in the world. They are renowned for their impressive adaptability to various climates and their ability to develop strong bonds with their caretakers.
Russian Tortoises (Testudo horsfieldii)
Otis is a delightful Russian tortoise who is approximately 3 years old. With his striking, patterned shell and inquisitive nature, he embodies the unique charm of his species. Russian tortoises are known for their hardy disposition. Otis loves to explore his environment and enjoys a diet rich in leafy greens and vegetables, reflecting the natural foraging behavior of his wild counterparts. At Black Butte Tortoise, we're passionate about breeding healthy, vibrant tortoises like Otis, ensuring that they thrive in their homes for years to come.
Otis
Sasha
Meet Sasha, our beautiful female Russian tortoise, approximately 4 years old. With her stunning, intricate shell patterns and gentle demeanor, Sasha is a true testament to the allure of Russian tortoises. These remarkable creatures are known for their adaptability and can thrive in a variety of environments, making them a favorite among tortoise enthusiasts. Sasha enjoys basking under her heat lamp and munching on a colorful array of leafy greens, reflecting her natural diet in the wild. At Black Butte Tortoise, we are dedicated to breeding healthy and thriving tortoises like Sasha, ensuring they bring joy and companionship to their owners for many years to come.
Sonja
Say hello to Sonya, our charming female Russian tortoise, who is approximately 4 years old. With her beautifully textured shell and friendly personality, Sonya is a delightful addition to any home. Russian tortoises are known for their longevity, making them a significant commitment for any pet owner. Sonya loves to explore her surroundings and has a particular fondness for dandelion greens and other nutritious vegetables that keep her healthy and happy. At Black Butte Tortoise, we are passionate about breeding robust and well-cared-for tortoises like Sonya, ensuring they thrive and bring joy to their families for decades.
Libyan Greek Tortoises (Testudo graeca cyrenaica)
Idris, our adult Libyan Greek Tortoise, is a cherished member of the Black Butte Tortoise family. With his beautifully domed shell and vibrant coloration, Idris perfectly represents the elegance and hardy nature of this unique Mediterranean species. His calm temperament and inquisitive nature make him a favorite among visitors and tortoise enthusiasts. Libyan Greek Tortoises are a subspecies of the Greek Tortoise, native to the arid regions of North Africa. Known for their ability to thrive in hot, dry climates, these tortoises have evolved to conserve water efficiently, often surviving long periods without direct hydration. Their adaptability and manageable size make them an excellent addition to responsible breeding programs.
Idris
Fatima
Fatima, our graceful adult female Libyan Greek Tortoise, is a treasured member of the Black Butte Tortoise family. Her beautifully domed shell and intricate patterning are hallmarks of this remarkable species. Fatima's serene demeanor and curious nature make her a standout among our tortoises, showcasing the elegance and charm of her kind. Female Libyan Greek Tortoises are slightly larger than their male counterparts and are known for their longevity. Native to North Africa, these tortoises have adapted to thrive in arid conditions, making them incredibly resilient and an essential species for conservation efforts.
Jo
Jo, our precious Libyan Greek Tortoise hatchling, is a special addition to Black Butte Tortoise, proudly produced by Idris and Fatima. Jo’s tiny yet perfectly patterned shell is a testament to the beauty and vitality of this species. As a hatchling, Jo is full of energy and curiosity, capturing hearts with every little step. Libyan Greek Tortoise hatchlings are incredibly resilient from the start, often hatching in harsh environments where survival instincts are key. These little tortoises are born with a soft shell that hardens over time, offering them protection as they grow. Their adaptability to arid climates makes them a fascinating and hardy species for breeding and conservation efforts.
Eastern Hermann’s Tortoises (Testudo hermanni boettgeri)
Giannis, our handsome adult male Eastern Hermann's Tortoise, is a standout at Black Butte Tortoise. With his sleek, high-domed shell featuring vibrant yellow and black markings, Giannis exemplifies the striking beauty of his species. His active and friendly nature makes him a delight to observe, as he forages and explores his habitat with confidence. Eastern Hermann's Tortoises are native to the Mediterranean region and are known for their strong, domed shells that provide excellent protection from predators. Unlike other tortoise species, they have a signature spur on the tip of their tails, a unique characteristic of Hermann's Tortoises.
Giannis
Atlas
Atlas, our majestic adult male Eastern Hermann's Tortoise, is a cornerstone of the Black Butte Tortoise family. With his sturdy, high-domed shell and bold black and yellow markings, Atlas lives up to his name, embodying strength and resilience. His calm yet curious personality makes him a delight to care for and observe. Eastern Hermann's Tortoises are native to the Mediterranean. Their strong, domed shells not only provide excellent protection but also help regulate their body temperature in their natural environments. These traits make them both fascinating and hardy members of any responsible breeding program.
Leonidas
Leonidas, our regal adult male Eastern Hermann's Tortoise, brings both heritage and distinction to Black Butte Tortoise. Originally from the renowned Garden State Tortoise we were told, Leonidas boasts a beautifully domed shell with vibrant black and golden-yellow patterns, a true testament to the species' natural beauty. His confident and charismatic nature reflects his powerful name, making him a standout in our collection. Eastern Hermann's Tortoises are known for their adaptability to a wide range of environments, from woodlands to scrublands. One of their unique traits is the small spur at the end of their tails, which differentiates them from other tortoise species. Their hardy nature and captivating appearance make them a favorite among enthusiasts and conservation programs alike.
Olive, our graceful adult female Eastern Hermann's Tortoise, is a cherished member of the Black Butte Tortoise family. With her beautifully rounded shell adorned with olive-green and golden hues, she perfectly embodies her name and the natural beauty of her species. Olive’s calm and nurturing temperament makes her a standout among our Eastern Hermann’s Tortoises. Female Eastern Hermann's Tortoises are slightly larger than males and play a crucial role in species conservation through their excellent reproductive abilities.