Displays Some More Amazing Facts About Gopher Tortoise

The Gopher Tortoise, Nature's Landlord or maybe the Landlord of the Sand hills, either way it's definitely better than the moniker that I would probably end up with. The Gopher Tortoise is an obligate burrower with very stout and strong limbs. Its' claws are wide and flat with small protective scales extending up the tortoises shovel like front legs.

Their burrows can be up to 40 feet long and 10 feet deep, descending at a 30 degree angle. The width of the burrow is usually the length of tortoise, allowing for it to turn around in any section of the burrow. The male Gopher Tortoise can have an average of 17 burrows while the female maintains an average of 9, but it's common to have more than one tortoise sharing the same burrow. Fellow tortoises are not the only species that share the burrows, in fact not even close. The title Nature's Landlord comes from the fact up to 360 different animal species seek refuge in the tortoises burrow.

The list includes the gopher frog, the Florida mouse, opossum, indigo snake, pine snake, armadillo, burrowing owl, gopher cricket, scarab beetles, the Florida Scrub-jay and many others. The Gopher Tortoise is cold blooded averaging 10 inches long and up to 9lbs, its' life span ranges from 40- 60 years but in captivity can live more than 100 years. This particular tortoise belongs to a group of land tortoises that originated in North America nearly 60 million years ago and out of the nearly 23 species known to have existed on this continent as little as 4 species remain today. Once a year the female tortoise will lay an average of 6 eggs depending on their body size and it takes approximately 100 days for the eggs to incubate.

The gopher tortoises have temperature dependent sex determination, if the temperature of the sand is above 30 degrees the hatchlings will be female and below 30 degrees they will be male. The male tortoise has a concaved plastron (bottom shell) with a protruding plastron under the tortoises chin while the female's bottom shell is perfectly flat.

When the tortoises head and neck are completely retracted into the shell, the tortoise is generally safe from most predators. Although the tortoise has some natural threats like disease and climate, humans are the main cause for the decline of this species. In a list ranging from road mortalities to habitat destruction human interaction has played a major role in bringing this gentle herbivore closer to extinction. Florida has the gopher tortoise present in all 67 counties which has it on the list as a species of special concern.

Other states like Georgia, Louisiana. And Alabama have them listed as a threatened species but South Carolina and Mississippi have the tortoise on the endangered species list. The Gopher tortoise is an important part of the ecosystem and some of the species that share its burrows could not exist without them. Raising awareness and enforcing the protective laws is the only hope to keep Nature's Landlord from being evicted.

The tree species that greeted Ponce de Leon upon his discovery of Florida five centuries ago remain much the same today. Florida’s state forests are home not only to the bottomland hardwoods but to longleaf and slash pines, sometimes embedded with cypress and bay, dispersed among sawgrass swamp, scrubs, pinelands and even occasional patches of sandhills.

Such wide-ranging soils support equally varied wildlife: gopher tortoise, sandhill cranes, white-tailed deer, bobcat, and America’s bald eagle. The gopher tortoise, a threatened species, isn’t alone in this unstable state; the red-cockaded woodpecker, scrub jay, and indigo snake also share its unfortunate distinction.
The gopher tortoise is a very popular pet, but often it is not clear what care they need. They like a lot to be outdoors, walking and the sun, but also need shade and a place that can be protected inside the house to rest.

Animals are always surprises and present many interesting facts in the courtyard of a house in Manisa found a small turtle from a month old, which has 2 heads and 4 legs, but everything is under one shell.

Then the little turtle was taken to the Natural Park of Izmir in Turkey. As one can imagine the Siamese turtle, aroused the curiosity of all and the park have seen increasing visitors. Many years ago that is not copies with these features, in that place.

Although it has been said that there are several families who have found turtles with two heads and keep them as pets, living well.

A family in New York, has a two-headed turtle from the year 2002, are said to live a short time, but if they are adequately addressed can live longer.

They were told that each head has movement and managed independently, although the head seems to be right dominant.

In South Africa also has a pet family. Baar expert Ernest Cape Nature Conservation, said it is possible to find such animals, which they can be difficult it is to raise and reach adulthood.

Galapagos Tortoises Played A Key Role In Helping Us Understand How Our World Has Evolved

Gentle giants, the rare and endangered Galapagos Tortoises are the largest tortoise species in the world. Spotted by Bishop Tomas de Berlanga, when he discovered the Galapagos Islands by accident in 1535, these islands were named after them. Galapago which means 'saddle' in Spanish refers to the tortoise's saddle-shaped shell.
Growing over four feet in length and weighing in at roughly 500 pounds, these huge vertebrates have an impressive lifespan. The oldest Galapagos Tortoise was said to have lived for 152 years. However, the exact lifespan of these huge reptiles is yet to be determined as they have not been observed long enough. Another interesting fact about the Galapagos Tortoise is that they keep on growing for 30 to 40 years before they reach adulthood.

A strong population of over 250,000 in the early 19th century, today there are between 10,000 to 15,000 Galapagos Tortoises left in the wild. Innocent victims of poachers, these endemic tortoises have also been captured and killed by sailors and pirates for their meat. Another reason for a dwindling tortoise population has been attributed to the introduction of new mammal species on the islands such as goats, pigs and dogs, which step on or eat tortoise eggs, or feed off the same vegetation as tortoises do, thus causing food scarcity.

Having been reduced to near extinction, presently just 11 of the 15 tortoise subspecies exist in the Galapagos today. And while research has shown a likelihood of just 13 subspecies, many scientists believe that there were 15 Galapagos Tortoise species in total. Five subspecies of tortoises can be found on Isla Isabela, while the other six can be found on the islands of Española, Pinzón, Pinta, San Cristóbal, Santiago and Santa Cruz. It is more than likely that the tortoise subspecies on Isla Pinta will die out soon as only one male tortoise remains. Lonesome George, as he is affectionately known, is the last of the Pinta tortoises. He is currently being kept at the Charles Darwin Research Station on Isla Santa Cruz in an effort to help him mate. However, so far all attempts have been unsuccessful.

While there are different subspecies of Galapagos Tortoises, there are also different types as well. Differentiated by their size, color and the shape of their shells, one can spot three different kinds of Galapagos Tortoises. Dome-shaped tortoises have shorts limbs and necks, while their shell have a round or dome shape. Saddle-backed tortoises on the other hand have longer limbs and necks with a raised shell. The third tortoise type is known as an intermediate tortoise and is a mix between a saddle-backed and dome-shaped tortoise.

Living on a diet of fruits, cacti, grasses and vegetables, Galapagos Tortoises are herbivores. They are able to store water and food in their bodies letting them live for up to a year before they eat or drink again. Mostly found in elevated areas where the humidity is higher and there are grassy fields, many subspecies of tortoises also live on dry hotter islands where grass is sparse. Playful by nature, these cold-blooded reptiles spend much of their day basking in the sun, while at night they rest half submerged in either mud or water to stay warm.

Incredible creatures, the Galapagos Tortoises today have played a key role in helping us understand how our world has evolved. Capturing the hearts and minds of all those who visit here, these gentle playful creatures should be taken care of so as to preserve them for all future generations to enjoy.

After mating, the female will go to nesting areas several miles away to find a proper place to lay eggs. This place must be dry and sandy, so that they can bury their eggs. Once fixing on the right spot, she will take a long time to dig a hole about 12 inches deep, where she lays hard-shelled eggs which look like billiard ball. Usually they can lay 2 to 16 eggs at once. Then she covers them with sand. After that, she will make a muddy plug mixed with urine to seal the nest hole. Next she would press it firmly with her plastron. After completing all work, she will leave these eggs to be incubated by the warm sun. Unlike most animals whose gender are confirmed before they come out, whether it is a male or a female breaking out from the egg is determined by temperature. The disciplinarian is that if the temperature is low, more males will be. If it is high, more females will be.

The gestation can range from 4 to 8 months. Unlike the grown tortoise, the baby is very small, weighing only 50 grams and measuring 6 centimeters. When the young tortoises break out of their shells, these little creatures must dig their own way to the surface, which can cost up to one month. Then it's totally up to themselves to survive in the outside world. Usually, during the first 10-15 years, they will stay in warmer lowland areas to practice themselves to fit for the surroundings. Several years later, when they reach maturity, they can breed their own offspring as well.

Now, you have enough knowledge of this tortoise. You can go to the zoo and the island to see this animal, and you will gain more fun.

Horsefield Tortoise Is Easily Managed And Easy To Look After

If you choose a tortoise of any species to keep and care for, be prepared to care for it for many year's to come. Although many of the smaller types have not had their life expectancy studied specifically, it is know that many species will live for up to 75-100 years. If you choose one for a pet you must think of who and how it will be cared for when you are no longer here.

The Horsfield or Russian tortoise is one of the smaller varieties you could care for. It is friendly and outgoing and will often recognise its owner coming to greet them especially if it is time to eat! This particular species does thrive in an outside enclosure but beware, they do like to dig and can if left unattended dig under and out of their enclosure to the world beyond! These Geochelone Horsfieldi (Latin name) can be difficult to keep if you do not live in the correct type of environment. Their natural environment is arid to semi-arid grasslands through to rocky deserts and hillsides. They make excellent pets if their needs are provided for and will live for decades.

The Horsefield Tortoise is a little well-liked species of the reptile family named after biologist Thomas Horsefield. They are naturally found in South Eastern Russia, Afghanistan and Pakistan. It is generally known as the Russian tortoise.
You can look forward to many years together if you make sure you provide the best and most appropriate environment for your specific species. Unfortunately many captive bred chelonians die early as their owners are unaware of the needs of their pets. Education is fundamental to rearing and caring for your tortoise correctly. There are many authoritative sites to refer to if you are at all worried about your pet. Always, seek advice from your vet if you are concerned for its welfare.

Habitat

Dry lands, grassy and semi grassy fields are the natural habitat of the tortoises. This little species of tortoise is spread over a large area of land. Commonly this tortoise is termed as the tortoise of the central Asian state. Another relationship of this tortoise is linked in Afghanistan. In some places it is also called the Steppe Tortoise.

Life Span

• Their life span is estimated to be around, or above in some cases, 50 years, which is slightly less than other tortoise species.

Diet

• The Horsefield tortoises are said to be herbivore

• They do not like to move around for the purpose of food

• The food they like the most is fresh green vegetables and fruits, and they like to eat flowers as well

Natural plants, weeds and green leaves are loved by them. They require foods rich in calcium so that their shell becomes hard.

Breeding

• They can breed at any time of the year

• They choose mild conditions where they can easily manage their young babies

• The female tortoise can lay 3-5 eggs at a time

• The female tortoise can lay eggs in a burst of 3 seasons

• The eggs require high temperatures for hatching

• The hatching takes place after 3 months of laying eggs

Size

• The Horsefield tortoise can be in the range of size from 4-8 inches (10 to 20 cm) normally

• They are generally short as compared to other species

Hibernation

• Horsefield tortoises hibernate during winter to avoid the severe cold

• They can hibernate up to three months as adults

• In summer, when the temperature raises an extent, they are mostly found in shady moist places.

Keeping as Pet

• Horsefield tortoises are well-liked pets

• The reason being their small size

• Many of the pet suppliers can supply you with a horsefield tortoise on demand

• They require some care as pet

• Generally, due to their native climate, they are thought to be physically strong as compared to other species

• They need regular exposure to sunlight

• These tortoises do not take pleasure in high humidity and like to dig and burrow

• The ground should be appropriate to provide accommodation to their habits

Amazing Fact

• The Horsefield Tortoise was the first one of its kind to go into space, sent by the Russian space program

A Horsefield tortoise is convenient to house. We have to care for any animal, especially the tortoise, while keeping them in captivity. It is our responsibility to provide them the basic necessities and an environment that is close to their natural habitat so that they do not feel awkward and live freely and happily. Indeed, to keep a tortoise pet there is no better option than the Horsefield tortoise.

Spotted Turtles Behaviour And Lifestyle That You Must Know

Many people have seen pictures of Spotted Turtles, but may not know anything about them. They are currently at the risk of extinction in various parts of Canada and the United States, but can still be found occasionally at pet stores, and by private breeders. Their beauty and small size make them ideal as pets, but you should be prepared before bringing one into your home.

The Spotted Turtle is known for their spotted shell. They have black shells that have small yellow spots on them. They typically live in colder regions, and their black shells allow them to soak up more heat from the sun. They are a small type of turtle, ranging from 3 to 5 inches (8 to 12 cm). Males and females are very easy to tell apart, even as hatchlings. Females have a yellow chin, and males have a tan chin. As they get older, the male also has a longer and thicker tale, and females will have more spots.

If you are considering getting a Spotted Turtle as a pet, there are a few things that you must know. As with all turtles, it is important to mimic the turtle's natural habitat as closely as you can. In the wild, the Spotted Turtle lives in freshwater swamps and ponds. This means giving them a habitat that is about half water and half land. This may seem strange for an aquatic turtle, but because they are not great swimmers, they do not need a lot of water. Hatchlings will need about an inch (2.5 cm) of water, and adults will need about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) of water.

Although spotted turtles will eat non-aquatic worms such as red wrigglers and night crawlers, they do need to drag them to the water. Adult turtles only feed in the water. Despite this, they are not particularly strong swimmers and usually stay in relatively shallow water. Owners of pet spotteds should bear in mind that their water area need not be too deep. One inch (2.5cm) to one and a half inches (3.8cm) is often deep enough for a hatchling. Do remember to change the water regularly. As they grow, add more water and continue to monitor its chemical balance. A complete change of water should be a weekly routine, with frequent partial changes in between. A depth of 6 to 8 inches (15.2 to 20.3 cm) should be quite sufficient for mature spotted turtles.

The ideal habitat for a pet spotted turtle is split comprising half land, half water. This type of turtle is used to water that is quite frigid. They are most active in the spring and fall months, often going dormant during the height of summer and in winter. Their natural enemies are raccoons and muskrats. If your pet spotted turtle lives indoors, set up a basking area incorporation heat and UVB lamps.

Unlike certain other species, males and females are relatively easy to tell apart. Besides the tail, which is much thicker and longer in the male, there are other distinctions. From the moment they hatch, their chins have different colors, tan for the male and yellow for the female. Females often develop more spots than the males, and in general, both genders get more spots as they age. The plastron of the male is noticeably concave, while the female's is either convex or without curve. The carapace, which is mostly black, aids their basking.

They are quite intelligent, as lab tests in mazes have proven and they have a life expectancy of up to sixty-five years. They will snack on duckweed, but their main food preferences are carnivorous and include worms, snails, minnows, carrion and crayfish. They can also be fed commercial aquatic turtle food. While hatchlings need to feed daily, an adult can be fed every second or third day. Do not provide too much food, as it might rot in the water.

All turtles are cold-blooded which means they cannot regulate their own body temperature. So, to stay at a normal temperature, turtles will go into the water to cool down, and sit in the sun to warm up. A UVB light must be provided for that warmth.

Spotted Turtles are mainly carnivorous, meaning they eat mainly meat. They will occasionally eat leafy vegetables, so you should offer duck week or other greens sometimes, but they need a lot of protein in their diet. You can feed them a commercial pellet food that is designed especially for carnivorous aquatic turtles, but you should also provide fresh foods for them. Spotted Turtles will eat anything from small fish and snails, and various land-dwelling worms, so long as you drop them in the water for them.

Alan is a lover of animals and nature, especially turtles. One of the misleading turtle facts that Alan relates is that there are many turtle species, but there are no such things as mini turtles. It's a myth. The term baby turtles is simply a young turtle.