Are Petco reptiles wild caught?

I ask the lady at the store and she said that they all were captive breed and that Petco only carries captive breed reptiles and not wild caught reptiles.

Are most Russian tortoises wild caught?

Russian tortoises are almost all wild-caught, and it is taking a toll on the species. Recently, the Uzbeks began a system of ranching the animals, whereby eggs are collected from wild-caught females who are then returned to the wild. The eggs are incubated, and the hatchlings released into the tortoise trade.

Where does Petco get their turtles from?

Concordia Turtle Farm
PETCO then ships those turtles to its own vendor, Concordia Turtle Farm in Louisiana, which has said that it will “treat” the turtles for salmonella. Well, this might sound like a noble effort to some, but shipping turtles is extremely stressful on them.

Where do Russian tortoises come from?

This tortoise is found primarily in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, southeastern Russia, and China. Its native environment is harsh and arid, and includes sandy steppes, as well as grassy areas close to springs in arid, rocky, hilly terrain. It is found at elevations as high as 5,000 to 7,000 feet.

Is it safe to buy reptiles from Petco?

So if you spend $40 buying a reptile from PetSmart or Petco, that’s 40 votes making sure that they continue getting reptiles from inhumane animal mills and treating their animals poorly. Instead, buy your animals and supplies from high quality breeders and pet shops.

Where do Russian tortoise live in wild?

Russian tortoises are found throughout much of central Asia. They are especially common in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and parts of Iran. The climate of this region is harsh and variable, with extremely hot and dry summers and bitterly cold winters.

How can I tell if my Russian tortoise is wild caught?

Purchasing captive-bred turtles and tortoises whenever possible is always recommended. Many wild populations of chelonians (turtles and tortoises) are in serious trouble.

Can I leave my turtle at Petco?

However, Petco stores will accept any aquatic turtle, regardless of size. Do not capture turtles in the wild and keep them as pets. Do not keep reptiles in child care centers, nursery schools or other facilities with young children.

Do Russian tortoises have predators?

What predators do Russian tortoises face? In their native habitats, Russian tortoises can be vulnerable to other reptiles such as lizards and snakes as well as birds. In captivity when kept outside, animals such as dogs, possums, or raccoons can go after unprotected tortoises.

Where do PetSmart reptiles come from?

PetSmart has been known to get their reptiles from Reptiles by Mack, which is a company that has been breeding reptiles since 1985. At Reptiles by Mack, the reptiles are kept from babies until they are strong, large, and old enough to be transported to pet stores like PetSmart.

What do you feed a Russian tortoise?

Things to remember when feeding your Russian tortoise: Fresh, clean, chlorinefree water should be available at all times. Feed tortoises daily; finely chop vegetables. Sprinkle food with calcium supplement daily and a multi-vitamin supplement once or twice a week. Discard vegetables and fruits not eaten within 24 hours.

How do you care for a Russian tortoise?

General care of the tortoise Change the water in the table every day. Feed the tortoise safe, edible weeds and flowers only. Tortoises should be kept outside in the summer months, if the weather permits.

What is the best substrate for a Russian tortoise?

There is some debate about the perfect product to use to create a healthy substrate in the Russian Tortoise enclosure. For some tortoise owners the best possible substrate is a mix of play sand and coir or loam. A mix of sand and garden soil is also well-recommended, as is an admixture of peat moss.

What should Russian tortoises eat?

In small amounts, apples can be beneficial to Russian Tortoises due to their high pectin content. Russian Tortoises should mainly eat leafy greens such as Romaine lettuce, Radicchio and Collard. You can find much more in depth information here:http://www.russiantortoise.org/r…