Frequently Asked Questions About Desert Tortoise Adoption
Joshua Tree Tortoise Rescue - (760) 369-1235

What is the Desert Tortoise Adoption Program?

It is a free program where captive tortoises are adopted out to families and individuals who have completed the tortoise adoption application. This program is supervised by the California Department of Fish and Game and was started when the tortoise was listed as endangered and to prevent captive release into the wild.

Where do the tortoises come from?

The tortoises are donated to the Rescue. They are sick, injured, have been found wandering in a highly- populated area, from individuals were no longer to keep their already captive tortoises, or had accumulated too many hatchlings. We do not collect them from the desert nor breed them for adoption. The breeding of desert tortoises is illegal and is only permitted with a special propagation license issued by the California Department of Fish and Game.

Can I buy a desert tortoise?

No. It is illegal to buy or sell desert tortoises. Anyone selling desert tortoises should be reported to the California Department of Fish and Game at CALTIP, 1-800-952-5400. There are many other turtle and tortoise species that can be purchased through reputable pet shops.

Can anyone adopt a tortoise?

Yes, if they complete the appropriate application form satisfactorily. The application needs to be completed by an adult. It is a special commitment, as a desert tortoise can live to be 80 to 100 years old. The primary qualifications include: no below-the-ground pool, no small children, no large dogs, and a completely fenced or blocked in area. Providing veterinary care and a proper diet become your responsibility. Hatchlings ("babies") need very special care.

What if the tortoise gets sick?

Again, once you adopt a tortoise, veterinary care becomes your responsibility. If you cannot afford this, you can return the tortoise back to the Rescue, but you will not be permitted to have it back. Once healthy, it will be adopted to another individual or family. All pets get sick sometimes. If you cannot afford veterinary care, it would be better not to have any pet.

Can I give my tortoise to a friend if I can no longer keep it?

Yes, but make sure you transfer the registration by calling Ginger Wilfong at 510-886-2946. Hatchlings that you may give away must also be licensed immediately. It is false that the new caregiver has three years to license hatchlings. Call the Rescue for free licensing applications.

Can I take my tortoise out of the State of California?

You may not take a desert tortoise out of the State of California. If you are moving out of the State, transfer adoption to a capable individual or family, or turn the tortoise back into the Rescue, and it will be re-adopted.

How many tortoises can someone adopt?

Since there is a waiting list, we usually adopt them out one at a time. Occasionally, we get a pair in that has been raised together, and we don't want to split them up. Also, in the case the hatchlings, we will adopt out a pair as they seem to do better this way.

When will I get my tortoise?

There is a 4 to 6 month waiting list during the months of March through November. There are no tortoises adopted out during the hibernation period. Females are extremely rare. When a tortoise becomes available, and your application has been approved, we will contact you.

What is "licensing?"

All captive desert tortoises must be registered with the California Department of Fish and Game. The Rescue provides these applications free of charge. A "license plate" will be sent to you with instructions on how to attach it to your adult tortoises. In the case of babies, hold on to the license until they are large enough to attach the tag.