Have you ever wanted a non-furry pet? Each year, the Arizona Game and Fish Department adopts captive tortoises that cannot be released back into the wild because the captive tortoises can transmit diseases that affect the wild population. Currently, the wildlife center is full and they are hoping to adopt as many tortoises as possible before September 30th. The game and fish department said tortoises are typically only adopted from April 1st to September 30th because they hibernate during the cooler months. Under state law, desert tortoises are only available for adoption for permanent Arizona residents.
Before adopting a tortoise, it is strongly recommended that you to educate yourself about them. Adopters should also consider that healthy tortoises can live upwards of 80-100 years and should have a long-term plan in place as the tortoise may outlive its owners.
An adopted tortoise will require a shelter and enclosure to ensure it doesn’t escape. Pools and ponds must also be gated to prevent the tortoise from entering, since they cannot swim. Additionally, the enclosure must be built to keep a dog from getting to the tortoise. Visit the Arizona Game & Fish Department for detailed shelter and diet requirements.
Once you’ve educated yourself on desert tortoise care, you’ll have to fill out an adoption application and send in photos of the tortoise’s constructed habitat. Click here for an adoption application. If you have any questions, you can contact the Desert Tortoise Adoption Hotline at 844-896-5730.
IF you are searching for a new home for you and your tortoise, give us a call at 480-500-1738.
