Dietary Supplements

Tortoises that graze outdoors and have a healthy diet do not require great amounts of vitamin and/or mineral supplements. In fact, A.C. Highfield, in his book, The Tortoise and Turtle Feeding Manual (2000), states, “There is a great deal of misunderstanding concerning the role of vitamins and minerals. Many people believe that the more you give the better – this is categorically not true, indeed, some vitamins and minerals can be positively dangerous if taken in excess.” Highfield recommends that you provide your tortoise with as varied a diet as possible for optimal health. 

Tortoises need significant quantities of calcium, particularly as they are growing. Unfortunately,

in the captive environment, it is difficult for them to obtain all the calcium they need from their

diet alone. It is recommended that you occasionally sprinkle their food with a calcium

supplement, preferably formulated for tortoises. The best supplements for tortoises are

phosphorus-free, contain a wide range of trace elements, and are free of added amino acids

(these supplements generally include vitamin D3 as well). Tortoises that are maintained outdoors

throughout the year do not need D3 supplements. Finely ground egg shells, finely ground oyster

shells or cuttlefish bones are a good sources of calcium. The need for extra calcium is especially

high in females and hatchlings.