Re: Chaco tortoise question

[ Follow Ups ] [ Post Followup ] [ The Tortoise Forum ]

Posted by Giovanni on May 18, 2002 at 18:18:17:

In Reply to: Chaco tortoise question posted by Bee on May 18, 2002 at 15:42:09:

: Does anyone know if Chaco tortoises would do well in Southern Ca weather?

The Chaco Tortoise (Geochelone chilensis)is a South American Tortoise that closely resembles a Sulcata Tortoise. The interesting thing about them is that they are the closest realitive of the Galapogas tortoise, but the smallest of the 3
species from South America ( Galap, Redfoot, Yellowfoot). You would think that being an SA tortoise that they would do best in a humid environment, but like the galap the prefer a semi desert scrub, to graze and be happy..so CA could be a good place for them. Also, I am not sure of their current CITES status, you may want to check on that because they are known as a rare tortoise.
I got a chance to hold one at the Daytona Show last year and took a picture of it, it was beautiful. I think the gentleman who had it ( and a Bowspirit Tortoise as well) wanted $3,500.00 dollars for it. I think he called it an Argentina Tortoise.

: Are Chaco tortoises hardy or sensitive tortoises?

I apologize but I won't attempt to answer that question, I have never had one in captivity. That question should only be directed to somebody who has the hands on experience with this tortoise. I have read conflicting accounts regarding "hibernation" and "brumation" with this breed. When those words come up, experience with tortoises that require this cycle is imperitive. I included a link for you to check out that may help you dig a little deeper.

: How are they compared to Greek tortoises??

Very similar but from 2 different hemispheres. The Spur Thigh is probably alot cheaper and much easier.

Ciao'

Giovanni

Go here

Follow Ups:

Post a Followup

Name:
E-Mail:

Subject:

Comments:
: : Does anyone know if Chaco tortoises would do well in Southern Ca weather? : The Chaco Tortoise (Geochelone chilensis)is a South American Tortoise that closely resembles a Sulcata Tortoise. The interesting thing about them is that they are the closest realitive of the Galapogas tortoise, but the smallest of the 3 : species from South America ( Galap, Redfoot, Yellowfoot). You would think that being an SA tortoise that they would do best in a humid environment, but like the galap the prefer a semi desert scrub, to graze and be happy..so CA could be a good place for them. Also, I am not sure of their current CITES status, you may want to check on that because they are known as a rare tortoise. : I got a chance to hold one at the Daytona Show last year and took a picture of it, it was beautiful. I think the gentleman who had it ( and a Bowspirit Tortoise as well) wanted $3,500.00 dollars for it. I think he called it an Argentina Tortoise. : : Are Chaco tortoises hardy or sensitive tortoises? : I apologize but I won't attempt to answer that question, I have never had one in captivity. That question should only be directed to somebody who has the hands on experience with this tortoise. I have read conflicting accounts regarding "hibernation" and "brumation" with this breed. When those words come up, experience with tortoises that require this cycle is imperitive. I included a link for you to check out that may help you dig a little deeper. : : How are they compared to Greek tortoises?? : Very similar but from 2 different hemispheres. The Spur Thigh is probably alot cheaper and much easier. : Ciao' : Giovanni :

Optional Link URL:
Link Title:
Optional Image URL:

[ Follow Ups ] [ Post Followup ] [ The Tortoise Forum ]