Adoption

THINGS YOU NEED TO DO

First read from page 4 to the end of Eliminate Hazards on page 9 to understand the basic needs of tortoises. Then, if you want to go ahead with adoption, call (702) 739-8043. A member of the Adoption Committee will need to visit your yard before you start preparations. This will save you time and effort. We will suggest the best place for the burrow, and point out those things that you will need to do to make your yard ready such as:

  • Dig a burrow for each tortoise. You may need to change your irrigation pattern to create a completely dry area at least 15' x 15' for each burrow.

  • Make your yard escape-proof.

  • Remove hazards.

  • Provide a water dish and make a cover for it, if necessary.

  • Plant a patch of grass with dandelions (highly recommended).

  • Plant several of the ornamentals that tortoises eat and we suggest.

  • Feed the tortoise MegaDiet, the tortoise chow we recommend.

    • If you have a female tortoise and want a second tortoise, we may be able to adopt a second female for you. A visit to your yard will be necessary. In keeping with our birth control policy, we will not adopt to create a mating pair now or eventually. For homes with no tortoises, we adopt only one or two females, one male or one immature tortoise. If you have a tortoise, we can offer suggestions, whether or not you adopted from us. Our consultation visists to your yard are free.


    Figure 6. Backyard designed around a tortoise - dry area for burrow (left),
    shallow walk-in water feature, plants and grass for browsing.

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