| Ivory Sulcata Photo Gallery |
These Leucistic beauties are the offspring of two normal looking Sulcata who both happen to carry the very rare Leucistic gene. Mated separately, they are unable to produce Leucistic babies. Tortuga Villa is one of only two known breeders in the world to produce the 'Ivory-Pearl' offspring. Approximately 25% of every clutch are Leucistic. According to studies, normal looking siblings (as shown in the center photo above), are calculated as having a 66.6% chance of carrying the Leucistic gene. These siblings are considered 'Hets' like their mother and father. |
The primary difference between true 'Albinos' and 'Leucistic' is with the eye pigment. Albino genes cause a complete loss of pigment in everything, including skin, shell and eyes. Albino eyes are actually clear (without color) and what you see are blood vessels at the back of the eye, giving the red appearance. Leucistic genes cause a loss of pigment in everything except the eyes, leaving the eyes with natural color. Although Leucistic babies are first born with clear (albino) eyes with dark red appearance, they eventually change to black during the first few weeks. True albino eyes will remain red throughout life, making the outdoors (sun rays) an unhealthy environment, whereas, Leucistic tortoises (with black eyes) are not harmed by natural sunlight . |
| Juveniles & Young Adult Ivory Sulcata |
Juvenile Ivories enjoying Mazuri Tortoise Diet with normal friends (photo at right). As young adults: Ivory Sulcata with normal Het (photos below) |
The Sulcata tortoise (also known as the African Spur-thigh) is one of the hardiest tortoises in captivity, easy to care for and makes a great pet. Yet in determining if this is an appropriate pet for you, it's important to understand that the Sulcata can reach 50 lbs in 5 years and can weigh up to 100-200 lbs as an adult. With proper care, including a large yard and house with year-round heat, the Sulcata can likely out live its owners. (Please click the link at top of page for proper Care Information). |
This exotic beauty (known as the 'Ivory' or 'Pearl' Sulcata), is a very rare and unique pet for those who appreciate the unusual. Throughout history, many cultures believe that mysterious powers exist in the rarely seen albino animal, and that special blessings and good luck are passed on to those who are able to see or touch one in real life. Never to be hunted or killed, they believe the albino must be respected and protected by all who come in contact . One of the strongest 'spirit' connections among Native American tribes was the White Buffalo, a definite omen of great wisdom and power. The symbolic significance (associated with the quality of "whiteness") was purity, wisdom and ancient knowledge of greater conceptual and spiritual magnitude |