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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/reptile-tortoise-herbivore

In general, what kind of eater is a pet tortoise?

Tortoises are generally plant eaters.

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  1. A meat eater (carnivore)
  2. An insect eater (insectivore)
  3. A plant eater (herbivore) ✔

Why: UC Davis vets say tortoises are generally herbivores, while most turtles are omnivores. A tortoise diet should center on dark leafy greens like dandelion and mustard greens.

Huh, didn't know that: Merck says adding hay or other roughage can help large land tortoises digest their food.

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What is a tortoise's favorite sandwich? Lettuce and tomato on whole wheat, slow roasted.
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References

Answer: A plant eater (herbivore). UC Davis vets say tortoises are generally herbivores, while most turtles are omnivores. A tortoise diet should center on dark leafy greens like dandelion and mustard greens.

  1. UC Davis California Veterinary Emergency Team: Avian and Exotics Animal Care and Feeding Guide (Jan 2025), Turtle/Tortoise Care cvet.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/sites/g/files/dgvnsk13661/files/inline-files/CVET%20Avian%20and%20Exotics%20Animal%20Care%20and%20Feeding%20Guide%20010725.pdf
    In general, tortoises are herbivores and turtles are omnivores.
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual (pet owner): Providing a Home for a Reptile www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/reptiles/providing-a-home-for-a-reptile
    adding fiber or roughage (such as hay) to the diet may help improve digestion
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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