Modesto Man Adopted Viral Sulcata Tortoise
A Modesto resident adopted an 11-year-old sulcata tortoise that has gained a significant social media following.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Reptiles
Wilson Tsai adopted an 11-year-old sulcata tortoise named Sherman one year ago in October 2025. The reptile has since become a viral sensation, amassing over 10,000 followers on TikTok and 8,000 on Instagram.
Why it matters
The adoption highlights the unique commitment required to care for long-lived exotic pets with instinctual roaming behaviors. Tsai has already established a will and trust for the tortoise, ensuring its long-term care throughout its potential 100-year lifespan.
Sherman currently weighs 55 pounds and is projected to reach a mature weight between 100 and 150 pounds. The tortoise, which has a potential lifespan of 70 to 100 years, requires specialized care including reinforced fencing.
The players
Wilson Tsai
He is a Modesto resident who adopted a sulcata tortoise and proactively established a legal trust for its future care.
Cali FID Parrot & Exotics Rescue Sanctuary
This is the rescue organization where Wilson Tsai adopted Sherman one year ago.
The details
After noticing the tortoise had a natural instinct to roam, Tsai began taking Sherman on public outings across Northern California, including trips to the San Francisco Bay Area via BART. To manage the animal's daily movement, Tsai transports Sherman in a large plastic storage bin and has reinforced his backyard fence to prevent escapes.
Timeline
11 years ago: Sherman the tortoise was born.
October 2025: Wilson Tsai adopted Sherman.
October 2026: Current article publication date.
Culture Shift
The rise of pet influencers on social media platforms has fundamentally changed how owners interact with the public. This story follows the pattern of owners using digital platforms to document the unique lives of exotic pets, transforming individual animal care into a shared public experience.
Residents may encounter the tortoise during public outings or transit through the San Francisco Bay Area. Owners of similar large reptiles should note the necessity of reinforced fencing and estate planning for the long-term commitment the species requires.
The takeaway
Owning a sulcata tortoise requires preparing for a pet that can live up to a century and weigh over 100 pounds. Prospective owners should ensure they have the physical space for secure containment and the financial resources to plan for the animal's long-term future.
Further reading
For more information on keeping non-traditional pets, visit our Reptiles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Sacramento Bee.
