In order to meet their UV light requirements and maintain normal light cycles, Sulcatas are best housed outdoors in a large enclosure. The concrete or block walls of the enclosure should be sunk down into the ground at least 2 feet as these tortoises are known to dig deep burrows (almost 3 feet below ground and 10 feet long) to escape high temperatures and reach some humidity. Chain link or wooden fences are not recommended because of the Sulcatas’ strength and burrowing ability. It is important to also provide an insulated shelter for protection from excessive heat or cold. Sulcatas do not hibernate during the winter so it is important to provide adequate housing or bring them inside for the cold months. If a Sulcata gets too cold then it cannot digest food and the food already in the intestinal tract will start to decompose. A winter shelter should be large enough for the tortoise to move around, well insulated and heated so the tortoise’s ambient temperature does not drop below 60°. An outdoor shelter should be large enough for the tortoise to turn around in but have an opening to the outside just a little larger than the diameter of the shell to mimic a burrow. Sheds and doghouses can be modified to fit these requirements.