Isaac is out to disprove the perception that all tortoises are slow.  This outgoing member of our rescued exotic animal family is constantly on the move, wasting little time in his never-ending quest to explore the farm.

Isaac is a sulcata tortoise, indigenous to northern Africa and the third largest species of tortoise in the world.  Fully grown adults, usually after 15 or 20 years, can weigh as much as 200 pounds! 

Although he's far from his native land today, Isaac happily calls Chenoa Manor home. Originally kept as a pet by a member of the U.S. armed forces, Isaac was surrendered to a reptile rescue group in the Baltimore area when his former person was sent to serve in the Middle East.  

While beautiful, the pyramid shapes on Isaac’s shell are a result of having been fed an inadequate diet, resulting in Metabolic Bone Disease. Fortunately, this condition is slowly reversible now that Isaac’s dietary needs are being met. His hot, humid days are spent grazing the pastures of Chenoa Manor, occasionally stopping to soak in a watering hole.  In the evening, Isaac remains indoors, usually snuggled under a pile of hay.

Sulcata tortoises are known to have a voracious appetite, and Isaac is no exception. In addition to his diet of grasses, Isaac enjoys the occasional vegetable snack.  Yellow squash is one of his faves!

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