tortoises listed in classifieds

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Posted by w on March 31, 2001 at 19:02:41:

I find it disturbing regarding some specimens being sold in the classifieds (and at shows, etc. for that matter). Experienced herpers will have little problem selecting torts that will likely be good buys. However, I fear that novices could be greatly disappointed with some acquisitions.

When tortoise species' names are spelled incorrectly, when exact sexes are listed for specimens of some species that are "too small to accurately sex," and when species are photographed in pens where species are mixed, thsi is a "hint" not to purchase these chelonians (or at least to be very wary). The last item being very important since torts shown are very likely imported wild-caughts where species from different continents are placed together so pathogens can be transferred. This is not a wise choice even for a short time period since one species is likely not immune to pathogens of another type.

I realize this is a buyer beware economy, but why subject novices to potential problems without a warning. Also, this is another example of how we are ruining our own "herp interests," by increasing the chances of chelonian demise through improper treatment of herps by dealers - then having novices end up owning a tort that may need extensive vet care to keep it alive.

Unfortunately, the majority of the legitimate dealers who sell specimens are hurt by the few offering inferior chelonians. Though, I realize there is no way of legally preventing "free trade," it might be wise to post a message on a regular basis explaining "how to best select a tortoise for a personal collection."

Maybe I am just on the bandwagon again, but after all the years I have been in the field I hate to see this happening. Thirty years ago we made mistakes because we didn't know better. With our knowledge today (which is still far from complete), why must we offer our favorite chelonians less than the best possible chances for survival? All this does is allow for the advocates of stopping all herp trade a valid rationale for elimination of selling and owning chelonians (and other herps) in private collections.

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Re: tortoises listed in classifieds LauraO 04/02/01 (1)
- Re: tortoises listed in classifieds WL 04/02/01 (0)

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: I find it disturbing regarding some specimens being sold in the classifieds (and at shows, etc. for that matter). Experienced herpers will have little problem selecting torts that will likely be good buys. However, I fear that novices could be greatly disappointed with some acquisitions. : When tortoise species' names are spelled incorrectly, when exact sexes are listed for specimens of some species that are "too small to accurately sex," and when species are photographed in pens where species are mixed, thsi is a "hint" not to purchase these chelonians (or at least to be very wary). The last item being very important since torts shown are very likely imported wild-caughts where species from different continents are placed together so pathogens can be transferred. This is not a wise choice even for a short time period since one species is likely not immune to pathogens of another type. : I realize this is a buyer beware economy, but why subject novices to potential problems without a warning. Also, this is another example of how we are ruining our own "herp interests," by increasing the chances of chelonian demise through improper treatment of herps by dealers - then having novices end up owning a tort that may need extensive vet care to keep it alive. : Unfortunately, the majority of the legitimate dealers who sell specimens are hurt by the few offering inferior chelonians. Though, I realize there is no way of legally preventing "free trade," it might be wise to post a message on a regular basis explaining "how to best select a tortoise for a personal collection." : Maybe I am just on the bandwagon again, but after all the years I have been in the field I hate to see this happening. Thirty years ago we made mistakes because we didn't know better. With our knowledge today (which is still far from complete), why must we offer our favorite chelonians less than the best possible chances for survival? All this does is allow for the advocates of stopping all herp trade a valid rationale for elimination of selling and owning chelonians (and other herps) in private collections.

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