The Arizona Game and Fish Department is adopting out desert tortoises that are native to the Southwestern desert. According to the article in the Daily News-Sun on Aug. 3, 2013, they will grow to be about 15 pounds and hibernate during the winter. They eat plant material, including grasses and wildflowers. They need an enclosed area that is big enough for a dog but is free from potential hazards like a pool or dog. The tortoise will never be able to be released into the wild since they can pass on an upper respiratory disease to the wild population. Reptiles are great for those with pet allergies to fur or feathers.
Found another article from Sun City Independent dated Aug. 7, 2013 says desert tortoises can live up to 100 yrs. and it gives the website of www.azgfd.gov/tortoise to get info on feeding, caring, creating appropriate habitat, etc. "A desert tortoise adoption packet, which includes the adoption application, can also be downloaded at the site."
August 28 article in SC Independent said that during monsoon season, desert tortoises are often on the move and need our vigilance to help them. --Don't remove from its habitat since most stay in same area their whole lives and in a new location will likely die. --Keep dogs away as it can be a threat. --If you see one on busy road and if traffic and safety permit it, pick it up by carrying it so it is level to the ground and move it to the other side of the road in the direction in which it was traveling. --Game and Fish biologists want to know of the encounter. Email details and photo if one can be taken without handling the tortoise: turtlesproject@azgfd.gov
Important petition to save desert tortoises http://www.thepetitionsite.com/679/...t-tortoise-conservation-center/?z00m=20622702
