Leopard+Tortoise

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// Geochelone pardalis // Order: Testudines

=**__Husbandry Information__**=

Diet Requirements

 * Omnivore. Tends to be more carnivorous when young and more herbivorous as an adult.

Notes on Enrichment & Training


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Potential Messaging

 * In general, animals seen at the zoo do not make good pets. Most have specialized dietary, veterinary, housing, and social needs that are difficult or impossible for even dedicated pet owners to meet. Always ensure that your future pet has not been taken from the wild. Capture of wild animals for the pet trade has significantly damaged the survival prospects of species such as sloths, tamanduas, and many parrots. Captured animals are typically mistreated by profit-motivated traffickers and dealers, resulting in many animal deaths; well-meaning animal lovers may feel like they are rescuing animals by purchasing them but are really perpetuating the cruelty. In addition, many exotic pets are released by their owners when they become too dangerous or demanding, often with devastating effects on local ecosystems. Animals that should never be kept as pets include all bats, primates, and exotic carnivores. Birds, fish, and reptiles have specialized needs, are frequently wild-caught, and damage the local environment if released; guests should be advised to educate themselves and proceed with caution. Domestic dogs and cats are almost always the best option! Many deserving animals are available for adoption at animal shelters. [] []

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=__Comments from the Rating System__=
 * Children's Zoo at Celebration Square: We have 2 male Leopard Torts who go on exhibit and also for public programming. They are a popular attraction since they are so large, well-behaved, and active. They can get heavy during handling so some of our older volunteers have problems handling them. Otherwise we have no issues with them.
 * Philadelphia Zoo: an easy, generally small-to-medium sized tortoise

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Threats and Conservation Status
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=__Contributors and Citations__=
 * Houston Zoo, Natural Encounters