Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Tortoise experts -- what species has habitat and husbandry requirements most similar to radiated tortoises? We live in Miami Florida and have a fenced yard. We love radiata but cannot afford a prime specimen of one at present. However, we would like to develop some experience relevant to getting our permit in a few years.

Thanks, Paul Groff

Hi Paul,

The rare Yniphora is similar but not feasible in this case. If I were you I would simply apply for the permit sooner rather than later and use the key points outlined in a thread a few weeks back here on the forum under "CBW permit." Very easy to get and only experience needed is that of other tortoise keeping and even better- propagation.

Radiata are extremely hardy and do well in almost any environment- humid, dry, hot, cool, etc. You won't find a more hardy species IMO.

Thanks for your very helpful reply. I thought maybe Pyxis would be the closest...

I actually don't have tortoise experience, though long ago I did keep boxies healthy for ten years before passing them along to another owner. But I take your point about breeding experience since that is apparently a requirement for permit holders.

So maybe I should look into a breeding pair of adult redfoots or herman's?

Thanks again,

Paul

If you do not have breeding success on your own, USFWS use to ask for a mentor letter or 2 and that would be fine. They have gotten picky about that in the last couple years and I know of one case where someone had to wait until eggs from a star tortoise hatched and then they got their permit. That was a contingency put in by a USFWS biologist. Borders on silly if you ask me. The permit process itself is far from optimal. I also know of applicants simply stating they have experience propagating when in fact they may or may not. Use your best judgement.

the redfoots should do great in Florida. The Hermans may be too humidity sensitive to do well in the outdoors. However, redfoots, yellowfoots, and possibly even hingebacked torts (if you want something smaller) should all do well with higher humidity. Mt. torts (black and brown) like higher humidity as well if I remember correctly.

Sri Lankan stars, redfoots, hermanns, and elongated tortoises all thrive in Miami, FL. I keep and produce all of the above and I live in Miami. Sri Lankan stars have radiations that are reminiscent of Radiata in my estimation. Indian stars did not do well here. They do not like the humidity and they detest being cool and wet.

Take care.
Janie Malsin
Upscale Reptiles