The Chelonoidis nigra in the USA
Soupios has spent years studying Galápagos tortoises, and easily rattles off facts about their history in the wild—from past and present population figures to the latest efforts by scientists and nonprofit organizations to replenish their numbers. He says he keeps them out of a concern for the species’s conservation. His tortoises appear healthy and content—a reflection of their keeper’s obvious conscientiousness and caring. But Soupios worries that other owners might not be as dedicated to their animals’ well-being. “The goal for me is to educate others about these wonderful creatures, one day being able to give some of the tortoises I breed to zoos,” he explains. “I’m concerned the only reason some people want to own Galápagos tortoises is to make money.”
Across the U.S. amateur herpetology enthusiasts—whether motivated by conservation, profits or both—are able to own, breed, sell and trade Galápagos tortoises and other exotic reptiles due to gaps in federal wildlife laws that make this relatively easy. Nor do these laws provide a systematic legal structure for wildlife officials to crack down on mistreatment or neglect by private owners. Several experts with insight into the U.S. pet reptile industry say it is a big moneymaker that often puts wild animals in the hands of people underequipped to care for them—and that can sometimes cause tortoises to succumb to malnutrition, disease and death. Although federal agents closely track the population of exotic mammals kept in captivity—on the premise of animal welfare and human safety—no such nationwide laws exist to safeguard the well-being of comparatively uncuddly reptiles.
Click the link to read more about what is happening…
Turtle News From Around the World
Conservation
USA:- Police officer helps snapping turtle cross the street
Ecology
USA:- 17 Lepidochelys kempii nests found on PINS
Education
USA:- 2017 sea-turtle walks: It’s time to register for a natural thrill
Health & Medical
UK:- Go-slow as firefighters take FIVE HOURS to rescue trapped tortoise
Ireland:- Caretta caretta turtle rescued in Tralee Bay in Co Kerry: video
Miscellany
USA:- Jerome woman donates Centrochelys sulcata to Out of Africa
IN:- Lepidochelys olivacea to be mascot of Asian Athletics meet in Odisha capital
This Week In Turtles…
THe Belton Kiwanis Club is preparing a “shell-ebration” with fun activities and an abundance of turtles. The 10th annual Turtle Festival will take place 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Yettie Polk Park in Belton, USA
Question or Concerns? Want to submit an article to get posted? Email us at [email protected].
Photo from Topol6.
