Does anyone know where I can legally get a California Desert Tortoise?

Question

My parents had a California desert tortoise for 26 years that passed away on Mother's Day last year. My mom has mentioned that she wants another one (an egg or recently hatched) so I want to surprise her with another one this Mother's Day... but due to them being so rare and protected I'm having a heck of a time finding out how/ where to get one! Does anyone know of a desert tortoise breeder (I've found plenty of breeders for other tortoises but I'm hoping for this specific type) or have any tips how to find another one of these tortoises? Thanks in advance for any help!

Answer 1

If you are in California, then it is illegal to possess one unless you were grandfathered in like your parents. It is also illegal to breed them (although I'm not sure why).

Here is a website that explains all of the laws regarding these tortoises: http://www.deserttortoise.org/answeringquestions/

Here is an excerpt from the website:
"However, the current position of the California Department of Fish and Game is that it is illegal to breed captive tortoises."

The only way you can obtain one legally is to have one transferred to you from someone that already owns a grandfathered one.

Answer 2

I am sorry to say, but even 26 years ago it was illegal to buy, sell, own, collect, capture, harass, or keep a California Desert Tortoise. Because they are on the endangered species list, no other American can either... but California is one of the states that will truly prosecute you for breaking the law (moreso lately than they used to.)

Part of the problem is that Desert Tortoises really make pretty mediocre pets. Yours lived for 26 years- they hit 75 in the wild pretty easily (unless they meet up with a car or 4x4). They need space, burrows, at least a little interaction with others, etc.

They also reproduce poorly in captivity. Part of the reason they are illegal is because they do reproduce so poorly that even a small number of collected tortoises can really harm the local population.

There are several other animals to consider that work at least as well or better!

If you are in the dryer part of California and want a big tortoise, try a Leopard Tortoise. Smaller- try the Greek or Hermann's.

Warm and humid part of the state? Go for Red-foot Tortoises.

You can learn more about all of these at http://www.tortoisetrust.org.

You can also talk to a tortoise lover in your area through the California Turtle and Tortoise Club- http://www.tortoise.org

Answer 3

I wanted one also, but they are protected. I got "Russian Tortoises'. They are a little smaller. They are extremely hardy in Desert type climates, like So Cal. They are also priced reasonably. Usually under $100.

Answer 4

There is one here in Hot Springs, Arkansas at the aquarium. He is quite large though. But still a desster tortise. He is very nice.

Answer 5

i think you have to apply for a zoo permit