For some, a dog or cat will do just fine. But for others who are considering adopting something uniquely Arizonan, say hello to your next family member: a captive Sonoran desert tortoise.

How To Adopt

Due primarily to illegal breeding, the department has dozens of tortoises of varying ages and sizes available for adoption. Arizona residents interested in providing an adoptive home can submit an online application at http://www.azgfd.gov/tortoise and an information packet on how to properly care for a tortoise, including instructions on how to build an enclosure/burrow.

Captive tortoises grow up to about 14 inches long and can live upwards of 80 years. They also cannot be released back into the wild because they could spread diseases that harm wild populations.

Tortoise Enclosure Required

Adopters must have a securely enclosed yard or construct a separate enclosure/burrow to protect the tortoise from potential hazards such as a fire pit, unfenced pool or dogs. The enclosed area must include an appropriate shelter for the tortoise to escape Arizona's extreme summer heat and a place to brumate - a seasonal period of inactivity similar to hibernation - during winter.

Watch a video on how to build a tortoise shelter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YZ7_5LFh-Go&feature=youtu.be

The Rules

The department typically adopts one tortoise per household, but an additional tortoise of the same sex can be adopted if it is placed in a completely separate enclosure as they can be territorial. Federal law prohibits desert tortoises from being transported across state lines.

It is also illegal to remove Sonoran desert tortoises from the wild and to allow them to breed in captivity. One female tortoise living to 80 years old can produce more than 800 babies in her lifetime. This is why it is crucial that AZGFD work together to ensure tortoises are not only placed in proper homes but also with responsible owners.

More Information

For more information about AZGFD's Tortoise Adoption Program or to provide a donation to help the department cover costs for tortoise food, shelter and medical expenses, visit http://www.azgfd.gov/tortoise.

If you suspect someone is illegally breeding Sonoran desert tortoises, please contact the AZGFD Operation Game Thief hotline at 800-352-0700. Those submitting a tip can remain anonymous.

Did You Know?

The Arizona Game and Fish Department conserves and protects Arizona's 800+ wildlife species but receives NO Arizona general fund tax dollars. Contribute to our on-the-ground conservation efforts at http://www.AzWildlifeHero.com.