The curious case of the rubber tortoise: Attack of MBD
We’ve all heard about metabolic bone disease (MBD), but it really isn’t the most common health problem experienced in the hobby. Arguably, issues caused by parasites are much more common. However, that doesn’t change the fact that MBD really isn’t hard to prevent. One vet from the United Kingdom discusses the issues related to MBD and its prevention. He also issues the most important reminder: If you can’t afford the potential veterinary bills, you can’t afford the pet! Please encourage new turtle and tortoise owners to read this blog and remember you can always contact us for information on your turtle or tortoise species.
Turtle News From Around the World
Conservation
Hilton Head Island is left with tough decisions as they try to time a beach renourishment, important for sea turtle nesting, around the Piping Plover’s nesting season. Both are endangered and need protection.
Sea turtle hatching rates have been nearly 93% on the beaches of the Indian state Andhra Pradesh this year, emulate Odisha in making law to protect Olive Ridley Sea Turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea).
The India Coast Guard has launched ‘Operation Olivia‘ to enforce regulations and protect the Olive Ridley Sea Turtle.
Malaysia has also set up an anti-poaching task force to save marine turtles.
Louisiana’s legislature aims to pass a bill that would allow the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to enforce federal turtle-excluder device regulations.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) provides reminders as sea turtle nesting season heats up.
British Columbia builds nesting sites in the wild for the endangered coastal variant of the Western Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta bellii).
Did You Know…
Lepidochelys olivacea (Olive Ridley Sea Turtle) are solitary turtles preferring the open ocean. They migrate hundreds or thousands of miles each year. Females will come together for the arribada, an amazing event where hundreds or thousands of females will simultaneously lumber onto the beach across a 1-3 day period to nest.
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Photo by The Exotic Pet Vet Blog.
