Arizona "yard pets"

[DebsC]

They really are quite pretty. What would happen if they escaped your yard? Are they able to take care of themselves? I mean, they wouldn't starve would they?

I realize habitat is shrinking for most animals, that's why I ask.

[Ross]

I am sure Ed will correct me if I am wrong, but as I understand it, these are not "turtles" but tortoise. They are dry land critters that don't need water and/or sand for habitat and/or egg laying. Many (or perhaps most) are diggers. I think they are way cool and really great creatures that serve an important role in the ecosystem.

[EdinAZ]

Originally Posted by DebsC

They really are quite pretty. What would happen if they escaped your yard? Are they able to take care of themselves? I mean, they wouldn't starve would they?

I realize habitat is shrinking for most animals, that's why I ask.

Deb,

We take great pains to be sure they DON'T escape. Life would be VERY tough for them out on their own.

We got them from a state-sanctioned "adoption" program, and they were unable to be returned to the wild for some reason. We had our yard inspected by a program representative to be sure it was "suitable habitat" and was escape-proof.

They had been 'domestic" before we got them, and we have had them for seven years now, so they are not equipped to be "wild animals" any more.

Most states where tortoises live do have these adoption programs, and anyone interested in getting one should investigate this, NOT buy one from a reptile dealer.

ED