Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi all,
Several C. angulata have been slowly trickling into the U.S. over the past 18 months or so. In fact, 2 pairs were offered here on kingsnake in the last 6 months. My question is does anyone know how these are doing here in the states?

I am interested in them and could acquire them, but I'm a little gun shy about such a supposedly delicate species rarely seen here.

Anyone who can help, it would be much appreciated.

Thanks,
Matt Turner

Hi Matt,

Bowsprit Tortoises are great animals IF you can provide what they need. They like really warm days (90's or better) and cool nights (50's to 60's) combined with very LOW humidity. If the humidity is the least bit high, they will be very prone to skin infections which are extremely difficult to cure and control and are life threatening in scope.

I have kept the species at a couple of different times over my 54 years wth tortoises and even bred them successfully back in the 1970's, but would advise anyone who is not really expert at tortoise care to avoid acquiring them, unless they may happen to live in an area which meets their requirements. There are some being maintained at the John L. Behler Chelonian Conservation Center in Ojai, CA right now which seem to be doing well and have produced babies if knowing that helps in any way.

Anyone out there currently keeping those animals which have been recently advertised on the KS classifieds? How are the animals doing for you so far?

Thanks for the reply Bill. I would also like to know how any of the ones recently brought in are doing. Sounds like you did quite well with them and huge congrats on breeding them.

Ever since my earliest tort interests began, I have wanted C. angulata!

Matt