Sulcata FAQ
Q: Is it legal to incubate desert tortoise eggs in the state of California?
A: If a desert tortoise lays eggs, they are supposed to be left where they lay and let nature take her course." Not only is it illegal to artificially incubate desert tortoise eggs, but it a violation of the Federal Lacey Act to transfer a desert tortoise across state lines.
Q: How easy is it to get a CBW (Captive-Bred Wildlife) permit?
A: USFWS is very good about granting the permits. If you apply, you will eventually get one, though you may be asked for a few more things after sending in the initial application, such as a letter from a "mentor" who will agree to assist you with the husbandry of the species if USFWS feels you don't have enough experience after reading through your application. Applications can be found here: http://www.fws.gov/forms/display.cfm?number1=200. Can also get the permit application from a chapter or direct from DFG.
U.S.F.W.S. United State Fish and Wildlife Service
C.B.W. Captive-Bred Wildlife
D.F.G. Department of Fish and Game
Q: What are the white lines and flaky parts on my Sulcata’s shell?
A: The white lines you see are what we call "growth rings". This is where your tortoises shell is growing out and the white will flake off as time goes on. You can bathe your tortoises and use a soft brush to scrub their shells. This usually removes the flakes if it bothers you. It is nothing to be concerned about, and is very natural. NOTE: You will see more growth rings in the spring thru summer time when their growth is the most rapid.
Q: My problem/question, I can barely dig into to soil myself. It's a horrible mix of clay and rock. Everything I've read says to dig down 8". I have trouble getting down 2". Any suggestions? Do you think since I have such a hard time, they will as well? Or am I best off hiring someone to dig down for me?
Q: Why is my tortoise digging under plants?
A: It Is normal for torts to want to burrow down, and under some species of plants.
Q: My tortoise got scared and has sealed himself inside his shell and doesn’t show any signs of coming out.
A: Depending on the event, check for injuries. Put your tortoise in a dark, secure box for a while. If they are in shock, putting them out under a light will continue to add to the stress as any movement will just frighten them again.
Q: I keep my tortoises in my backyard what do I have to watch out for?
A: Predators! Raccoons, Cats, Dogs, depending on the size of your tortoise even Hawks. Also have to worry about the temperatures. Reptiles can easily get too hot and too cold. Find the living temperature range for your species of tortoise.
Q: Is an aquarium the best place for my Russian Tortoise?
A: Briefly, aquariums are not ideal for any tort species because they don't provide proper air flow and it is difficult to create the proper temperature gradient. See the examples of tortoise tables made from bookcases and large storage containers. In addition, Russian tortoises should not have fruit as part of their regular diet. An occasional small treat wouldn't hurt. Check out the list of suggested foods on the site above. In the wild they are mainly weed eaters. Dandelion greens are a healthy favorite. Organic (non-pesticide treated) mixed greens such as mustard, escarole, dark lettuces (not regular iceberg lettuce), hibiscus and grape leaves are great choices. A variety is important to provide a balanced diet.
Q: I just got my Russian Tortoise, is he good to go?
A: Get your tort in for a checkup and parasite test with a competent reptile veterinarian. Most Russian torts are caught from the wild and imported for sale in pet stores. They are usually loaded with parasites which can be dangerous and deadly.
Q: What should Russian Tortoise eat?
A: Basic diet in wild is grasses, weeds, succulents and their poop should be fibrous, pretty dry and not smelly. They really should not be eating fruits as it can cause :
- Diarrhea and stinky poop.
- 2. Digestive flora upset and result in excessive parasite infestations.
Q: Is it legal to send/receive Galapagos or Radiated tortoises over state lines?
A: A Captive Bred Wildlife (CBW) permit is required from the US Fish and Wildlife Service to send or receive CITES 1 (Endangered) species over state lines.
Q: What are the ideal temperature ranges for Tortoise?
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