Want a friendly companion? Adopt a desert tortoise, help conservation in the process

PHOENIX — If you feel the heat outside, you know it’s springtime. That also means it’s desert tortoise adoption season.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) matches dozens of captive Sonoran desert tortoises with families every year.

As the reptiles come out of winter brumation, it provides an opportunity for people to adopt a pet and contribute to the conservation of wildlife.

According to the AZGFD, it currently has more than 100 non-releasable tortoises of varying sizes and ages that are available for adoption.

Those interested can visit the AmAZing Wildlife tent at the annual AZGFD Outdoor EXPO on Saturday and Sunday at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility in Phoenix.

The tortoises cannot be released into the wild because they are often the result of illegal captive breeding and can carry respiratory infections that can devastate the wild population. The wild tortoises also already face threats from wildfires, human development and drought.

“Desert tortoises offer longtime companionship without the drama,” Tegan Wolf, the Desert Tortoise Adoption Program coordinator, said. “Tortoises are affectionate and low maintenance. They enjoy healthy greens, exploring the outdoors and visiting with their companions. With the right preparations, desert tortoises make a great addition to a family home. Our team of biologists will help you find your perfect match and prepare for their arrival.”

How to care for captive Sonoran Desert tortoises

These tortoises spend most of their time outdoors, and with Arizona’s extreme heat in the summer, it requires them to burrow to hide from the heat in summer, according to AZGFD.

Because of that, individuals who would like to adopt one must have a burrow ready at their home before submitting an application. Instructions on how to do so can be found online.

Desert tortoises are completely herbivorous, meaning their diet is a wide variety of plants, including grasses, leafy plants and flowers.

These reptiles are also a state-protected species and, therefore, may not be taken out of Arizona.

Desert tortoises can live for 80 to 100 years, normally through generations of a family.

If you would like to adopt a tortoise, everything you need to know is online and you can also donate if you would like to help but cannot adopt.

Related

Arizona wildlife agency seeking homes for desert tortoisesLarge desert tortoise rescued on I-10 after escaping from ostrich ranch in southern ArizonaWildlife officials warn against disturbing wild desert tortoisesKimberly Yee leading Tom Horne in bitter GOP primary for Arizona schools chiefWarren Petersen claims victory in GOP primary for Arizona attorney generalAlex Kolodin tops former state party chair in secretary of state primary race