Turtles & Tortoises
Bixby, a sulcata tortoise
Turtle or Tortoise? What do we call them? Turtles are semi aquatic with flatter shells. Tortoises live on land with rounder shells. Both have shells for protection against predators. Come learn more about their differences by visiting the farm today!
Red Eared Slider Turtles
At Hope and Serenity Farm Sanctuary, we recognize the unique challenges that come with caring for tortoises, leading many to abandon them once the novelty wears off. These remarkable reptiles require specific habitats, diets, and long-term commitment, which can overwhelm inexperienced owners. Our sanctuary offers a safe haven for tortoises in need of rescue.
We actively provide care for these animals, ensuring they receive the proper environment and nutrition vital to their well-being. By educating the public on the responsibilities involved in tortoise ownership, we aim to reduce the number of these wonderful creatures that end up in neglectful situations. Each tortoise at our sanctuary is treated with respect and care, enabling them to thrive.
Meet the tortoises!
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Bixby came from the Blue Ridge Reptile Rescue which closed down due to lack of funds. She is a Sulcata tortoise, also known as an African spurred tortoise. These tortoises are native to sub-Saharan Africa, weighing 80 to over 100 pounds and reaching shell lengths of up to 30 inches. Gentle and curious, they thrive socially but require ample space due to their size and the fact that they can live over 50 years.
Sponsored by Krisin Gomez, Olivia Dellinger, and Kimberly Shumadine
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Shelby is a Russian Tortoise. These tortoises are popular pets because of their small size and distinct features. They are calm and like to explore their space. With good care, they can live more than 40 years!
Shelby was found crossing the road and was thought to be a Box Turtle. Luckily she was found by a dear friend that knows turtle species.
Sponsored by Tristan Schak and Valerie Milaho
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Franklin is a Sulcata tortoise like Bixby and Trudy Lou. He was found in a church parking lot in April 2026 and we were unable to find his owner.
Available to sponsor
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Trudy Lou and Bixby came to us from Blue Ridge Reptile Rescue in Lexington, VA which closed due to lack of funds. She is a Sulcata tortoise like Bixby.
Sponsored by Curt Dorman
Did you know?
Sulcata tortoises are prolific breeders, with females capable of laying multiple clutches (15-20 eggs each) annually in captivity. The high breeding rate, coupled with the potential for a lack of suitable homes or care for all hatchlings, raises concerns about overbreeding.
Meet Our Turtles!
We have 3 new turtles. They are Red Eared Sliders. It is illegal to release them because they are non-native to Virginia. They were brought in to a friend's animal hospital to be euthanized. Instead we have made a spot for them and will care for them. They are named Higgins, Masters, and Magnum for characters on the Magnum, P.I. TV show.