Turtle Tea with TTPG

Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group
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Pour yourself a cup and join me for Turtle Tea - the definitive turtle and tortoise podcast! Whether you're a new keeper or a die-hard turtle nerd, we're sharing the inside secrets for keeping and breeding a variety of species. This show is brought to you by the Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group (TTPG), whose mission is to ensure survival of the world’s turtles and tortoises through captive breeding. Be sure to subscribe for expert species guides, husbandry and breeding advice - we’re brewing up new episodes every two weeks.

  1. 1 天前

    Russian Tortoise Care and Keeping with Katie Bradley

    In this episode of Turtle Tea with TTPG, host Wendy Montroy sits down with Russian tortoise breeder and expert Katie Bradley (@mossytortoise). With over 18 years of experience keeping and breeding Testudo horsfieldii, Katie shares her deep knowledge on Russian tortoise care, natural history, genetic testing, outdoor vs. indoor habitat setup, diet, and safe fridge brumation. Whether you are a beginner looking to get your first tortoise or an experienced keeper wanting to optimize your husbandry, this episode breaks down everything you need to know about housing, UV lighting, weed-based nutrition, and the recent importation bans affecting Russian tortoises in the U.S. Although technically not from what we currently consider "Russia", these tortoises have a long history of being imported from Central Asian countries that were part of the former U.S.S.R.Key Topics Covered in This Episode:󠁯•󠁏󠁏 The origin story: From a rescue on Craigslist to breeding second-generation captive-bred Russian tortoises.•󠁏󠁏 Russian tortoise natural history, native range (the "-stans"), and subspecies identification.•󠁏󠁏 Importation ban updates (December 2024 Uzbekistan import bans) and why captive breeding matters.•󠁏󠁏 Habitat and enclosure size requirements (why a 40-gallon tank is not enough).•󠁏󠁏 Outdoor vs. indoor care, temperature gradient, and safe UV lighting (Arcadia T5 setup).•󠁏󠁏 Proper diet: Broadleaf weeds, grocery store green rotations, avoiding fruit•󠁏󠁏 Step-by-step fridge brumation (hibernation) techniques, substrate selection, and seasonal wind-down.Connect & Follow:Guest: Katie Bradley https://www.facebook.com/MossyTortoisehttps://www.instagram.com/mossytortoise/About the Turtle & Tortoise Preservation Group (TTPG)The mission of the Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group (TTPG) is to ensure survival of the world’s turtles and tortoises through captive breeding. The TTPG supports the private ownership of chelonians and recognizes the substantial role that the private sector has played in the captive breeding and conservation of turtles and tortoises.Website: https://www.ttpg.orgJoin TTPG or donate: https://www.ttpg.org/membershipFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TTPGGroupQuestions & Answers (Q&A)Q: Are Russian tortoises good for beginners?A: Yes, beginners can keep Russian tortoises successfully, but only if they are committed to providing proper husbandry. Reptiles are not low-effort pets like cats or dogs; adults require large enclosures, UVB lighting, precise heat gradients, and a varied broadleaf diet to thrive.Q: How big of an enclosure does an adult Russian tortoise need?A: Standard 40-gallon aquariums are far too small for adult Russian tortoises, as they are active wanderers. For indoor housing, a minimum space of 4 ft x 8 ft (using a sheet of plywood lined with pond liner) is recommended. Whenever possible, safe outdoor housing during warmer months is ideal.Q: Can you feed grass to Russian tortoises?A: No, Russian tortoises will generally refuse to eat grass. Their ideal diet consists of broadleaf weeds (such as dandelion, plantain, and thistle), leafy greens (kale, collard greens, arugula, endive), and grape leaves. Avoid fruits and high-sugar foods, as they disrupt gut flora.Q: Are Russian tortoises still being imported into the U.S.?A: As of December 2024, commercial importation of wild-caught Russian tortoises from Uzbekistan (the primary export source) to the U.S. has effectively stopped. Keepers looking for Russian tortoises in the U.S. should seek out established, reputable captive breeders.More about the showWebsite: https://www.turtletea.orgIf you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a comment below to help more turtle enthusiasts find the show!

  2. 8月23日

    The Long Game: Breeding Radiated Tortoises with Paul Rattay

    In this episode of Turtle Tea with TTPG, host Wendy Montroy welcomes experienced chelonian keeper Paul Rattay for an in-depth conversation on breeding and caring for the Radiated Tortoise (Astrochelys radiata).While Radiated Tortoises are widely considered one of the most striking and desirable species in human care, successfully reproducing them requires immense patience, precise environmental cues, and long-term commitment. Paul breaks down his 20-year journey with the species, sharing the exact protocols, trial-and-error lessons, and practical strategies that led to his breeding success.Whether you are curious about the mechanics of egg diapause, managing aggressive male courtship, or setting up hatchling enclosures, this episode provides a thorough guide to modern Radiated Tortoise husbandry.Timestamps0:07 Radiated Tortoise Basics2:02 Maturity Takes Patience7:06 Genetics Shape the Pattern10:00 Seasonal Egg Laying11:39 Clutch Size and Frequency15:48 Egg Care and Diapause19:26 Incubation Temperature Window25:33 Hatchling Care28:44 Humidity and Soaking30:27 Growing to Adult Size31:28 Finding Breeding Stock35:31 Male Courtship Behavior38:22 Managing Multiple Males42:10 Breeding Advice and Timing44:08 Comparing Other Species47:44 Finding Expert HelpFrequently Asked Questions (Q&A)Q: How long does it take for a Radiated Tortoise to reach breeding age? A: Raising Radiated Tortoises from hatchlings is a long game. Males and females often take 12 to 16 years (or longer) to mature. Sex determination is difficult until they reach roughly 11 to 12 inches, though endoscopic sexing at an avian/exotic clinic can confirm sex earlier.Q: What is diapause, and why is it necessary for Radiated Tortoise eggs? A: Diapause is a mandatory cooling period that pauses embryonic development to simulate natural environmental seasons. After collection, eggs are kept at room temperature overnight, placed in a temperature-controlled cooling unit (around 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit) for 15 to 30 days, and then moved to an incubator set between 86 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit.Q: How do you care for new hatchlings and ensure smooth shell growth? A: Hatchlings should stay in the incubator until their yolk sac is fully absorbed and they begin moving around. Because young Radiateds flip over easily, house them in modest-sized hatchling tubs where they can be monitored. Provide routine soaks, maintain elevated humidity with covered enclosures, and avoid hot, dry ambient conditions to support high-domed, smooth shell development.Q: What are male Radiated Tortoise courtship behaviors like? A: Males can be intense during breeding introductions. Common behaviors include ramming, marching, and flipping females. Keepers should supervise introductions closely to ensure safety.About the Turtle & Tortoise Preservation Group (TTPG)The mission of the Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group (TTPG) is to ensure survival of the world’s turtles and tortoises through captive breeding. The TTPG supports the private ownership of chelonians and recognizes the substantial role that the private sector has played in the captive breeding and conservation of turtles and tortoises.Website: https://www.ttpg.orgJoin TTPG or Donate: https://www.ttpg.org/membershipFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TTPGGroupContact our guest, Paul RattayFacebook: Rattay Radiateds - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568025690064More about the showWebsite: https://www.turtletea.orgIf you enjoyed this episode please subscribe, and leave a review or comment to help more turtle enthusiasts find the show!

  3. 8月9日

    Evolution of the Turtle Room with Steve Enders: For the Love of Turtles

    In this episode of the Turtle Tea podcast, host Wendy chats with Steve Enders, founder and executive director of The Turtle Room. Steve shares how a passion for private turtle keeping expanded into field research, species conservation, educational content, and digital data management. Discover how collaboration between private keepers, zoos, and conservation groups can help secure the future of endangered turtles and tortoises. This episode is another special installment in our series, For the Love of Turtles, celebrating the dedication, accomplishments, and real-world impact of our members in turtle and tortoise preservation. 0:07 Turtle Room Origins 2:01 Fieldwork Opens Doors 7:41 Podcasting for Conservation 15:06 Zoo Partnerships and Breeding 22:57 Tracking Turtle Data 31:15 Bridging Turtle Organizations 33:56 Inspiring Young Turtle Lovers 36:19 How Volunteers Can Help Q: What is the mission of The Turtle Room and how did it begin? A: Founded in 2011, The Turtle Room brings private keepers together to elevate animal care, share resources, and build large-scale managed assurance programs. Q: How did The Turtle Room transition into wild field research? A: Following an invitation to chair a captive management session at the Turtle Survival Alliance conference in 2015, Steve partnered with researcher Eric Munscher to launch a long-term Pennsylvania Wood Turtle survey project that has now spanned over a decade. Q: Why is data tracking important for turtle and tortoise keepers? A: Regular weight and growth tracking provides actionable health insights and contributes to naturalistic husbandry knowledge across species. Q: How can volunteers support turtle conservation without doing fieldwork? A: Non-profits constantly need skilled support in video editing, social media management, writing, graphic design, and web development to amplify their outreach. About the Turtle & Tortoise Preservation Group (TTPG) The mission of the Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group (TTPG) is to ensure survival of the world’s turtles and tortoises through captive breeding. The TTPG supports the private ownership of chelonians and recognizes the substantial role that the private sector has played in the captive breeding and conservation of turtles and tortoises. Website: https://www.ttpg.org Join TTPG or Donate: https://www.ttpg.org/membership Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TTPGGroup Contact our guest, Steve Enders Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theTurtleRoom Website: https://theturtleroom.org/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/theTurtleRoom More about the show Website: https://www.turtletea.org If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a comment below to help more turtle enthusiasts find the show!

  4. 8月2日

    Saving the Egyptian Tortoise with Ralph Till and KAP: For the Love of Turtles

    Welcome back to Turtle Tea with TTPG! Today's episode kicks off a special installment in our series, For the Love of Turtles, celebrating the dedication, accomplishments, and real-world impact of our members in turtle and tortoise preservation. Host Wendy Montroy sits down with lifetime TTPG member Ralph Till, one of the founders of the Kleinmanni Assurance Project (KAP). Testudo kleinmanni, the Egyptian tortoise, is one of the smallest and most critically endangered tortoise species in the world. Facing severe habitat loss, poaching, and extinction in its native range, the species relies heavily on dedicated private keepers to maintain genetically viable populations for the future. Ralph walks us through how KAP was formed, why cooperative non-commercial breeding networks are vital when commercial markets and legal protections change, and how private keepers are successfully managing studbooks and sharing animals across the country. Key Topics Covered In This Episode The current reality of wild Egyptian tortoise populations in North Africa How the Endangered Species Act (ESA) listing changed the landscape for private keepers The difference between commercial breeding and an active assurance colony Managing genetic diversity, record-keeping, and standardized husbandry Navigating state regulations, non-commercial transfers, and legal compliance Why long-term commitment and species focus matter more than short-term gains Bridging the gap between private chelonian keepers, TTPG, and zoological institutions Timestamps 0:12 KAP and Egyptian Tortoises 2:45 Wild Population Collapse 3:28 Building an Assurance Colony 8:06 What Assurance Means 12:53 Legal Limits Explained 14:50 Rare Species, No Profits 16:37 Shared Husbandry Methods 17:55 Finding the First Members 20:43 Growing the Network 22:41 A Hawaii Success Story 25:15 Zoos and Future Partnerships 30:55 How Others Can Help 37:04 Advice for Dedicated Keepers 39:56 Passion Over Profit 43:10 Next Generation Stewards Contact our guest KAP: https://www.kleinmanniassuranceproject.com/ More about the show Website: ⁠https://www.turtletea.org⁠ TTPG Official Site: ⁠https://www.ttpg.org⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/ttpg_turtlesandtortoises/⁠ Facebook Group: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/TTPGGroup

  5. 7月26日

    Radiated Tortoises - Everyone's Dream Species

    Ask any tortoise keeper what their dream species is - and chances are their answer will be "Radiated Tortoises". In this episode of Turtle Tea with TTPG, host Wendy Montroy sits down with longtime keeper and recent breeder Paul Rattay to talk about Astrochelys radiata, one of the most strikingly patterned and critically endangered tortoises on the planet.Paul got his start with Radiateds nearly 20 years ago, sourcing young animals from Bill Zovickian and waiting patiently for them to mature into the breeding group he keeps today. From there, the conversation covers the tortoise's narrow native range along southwestern Madagascar, the mild climate they evolved in (no brumation required), and the mounting pressures - poaching, the pet trade, habitat loss, and tourism-driven development - pushing wild populations toward collapse.The episode also digs into a topic most care guides skip entirely: the regulatory limbo Radiated tortoises live in here in the US. Import for the pet trade stopped years ago, and once Fish & Wildlife stopped issuing new permits, captive-bred offspring could no longer be added to the official stud books. The result is an estimated 5,000 to 10,000 Radiated tortoises in the US today, a large share of them undocumented, with no traceable lineage back to the original imported lines.On the husbandry side, Paul makes the case that Radiateds are one of the more forgiving large tortoise species to keep - provided you can give them space, a real growing season's worth of forage, and protection from sustained cold. He walks through his outdoor setup, winter housing in converted stock tanks, feeding routine (dandelion greens, hay, Zoo Med grassland pellets, and whatever's growing in the yard), and the very dog-like personalities that make the males in particular such rewarding animals to keep.Key Questions Answered in This EpisodeQ: Are Radiated tortoises a good species for someone new to tortoise keeping?A: Yes, with caveats. Paul describes them as one of the easier large tortoise species to work with — hardy eaters with great personalities — as long as they aren't exposed to extended cold or kept in a space too small for their eventual adult size.Q: Can you still legally import Radiated tortoises into the US?A: Not for the pet trade. Import is essentially closed except under strict scientific permits held by certified research institutions — it's not a path available to hobbyist keepers or breeders.Q: Why are so many Radiated tortoises in the US considered "undocumented"?A: Once US Fish & Wildlife stopped issuing new permits, captive-bred offspring could no longer be officially added to the stud books. Paul estimates the US population at well over 5,000 animals, possibly approaching 10,000, with a large portion untraceable to any known bloodline.Q: What do Radiated tortoises eat in human care?A: A mix of grasses, hay, weeds like plantain, and store-bought greens such as dandelion, supplemented with grassland pellets for added fiber and occasional calcium.Q: Can Radiated tortoises be sold or gifted across state lines?A: Radiated tortoises are ESA- and CITES-I-listed, meaning they cannot be sold across state lines, though in-state sales are permitted. Paul notes there's informal talk in the community about gifting animals without a monetary exchange, though he cautions there's no official policy document confirming what's legally safe.Contact our guest, Paul RattayFacebook: Rattay Radiateds - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568025690064More about the showWebsite: https://www.turtletea.orgTTPG Official Site: https://www.ttpg.orgFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TTPGGroupSubscribe for new episodes every two weeks - next up, we go deeper into Radiated tortoise breeding and hatchling care.

  6. 7月12日

    Mother of Tortoises: Tara Troxell’s Journey with Arctic Reptile Ranch

    What happens when a self-proclaimed "cuddly cat person" marries a dedicated reptile keeper? In this episode of Turtle Tea with TTPG, host Wendy Montroy explores the human side of the chelonian community with guest Tara Troxell from Arctic Reptile Ranch. Tara shares her fascinating journey from being an anxious snake-sitter to a highly intuitive, primary tortoise caretaker. From navigating extreme weather shifts to mastering the stressful task of digging up delicate Burmese Star tortoise nests, Tara breaks down what it really takes to run a successful breeding facility. She also gets deeply personal about discovering her own unique maternal instincts through her bond with her animals and shares invaluable insights on reading subtle tortoise behaviors that care sheets leave out. Whether you are trying to convince your partner to let you get "just one more tortoise" or you're a seasoned breeder managing your own daily husbandry routines, Tara's story will deeply resonate. Timestamps 0:00 - Introduction: People of the TTPG1:03 - From Supportive Spouse to "Mother of Tortoises"2:14 - Early Days: Overcoming a Fear of Snakes3:00 - Moving to Texas & The Importance of Weather Monitoring4:55 - Overcoming Anxiety and Finding a Love for Tortoises6:11 - Harsh Lessons: The Danger of Flipped Tortoises7:54 - Rescuing Sauron & Harambe the Redfoot Tortoise9:39 - Captive Breeding and the Magic of Hatchlings11:02 - Learning the Ropes: Digging Your First Nest14:51 - The Importance of Reaching Out to Your Breeder17:47 - Dividing and Conquering: Partner Envy & Daily Routines23:20 - Discovering a "Maternal Instinct" Through Tortoise Care28:01 - Advice for Skeptical Partners & Common Misconceptions29:24 - Expert Observations: Spotting Pre-Nesting Behaviors34:19 - The Physical Demands of Keeping Tortoises in Extreme Heat37:15 - Closing Thoughts & How to Share Your TTPG Story For more information on turtle conservation and husbandry, visit ⁠⁠Turtletea.org⁠⁠ or join the ⁠⁠Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group (TTPG) ⁠⁠community. Not a TTPG member yet? ⁠⁠⁠⁠Join us⁠⁠⁠⁠! The ⁠⁠⁠⁠Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group⁠⁠⁠⁠ is full of the kindest, most knowledgable and FUN turtle people on the planet!

  7. 6月28日

    Greek Tortoise Deep Dive with Chris Leone

    Welcome back to Turtle Tea with TTPG - the definitive Turtle and Tortoise Podcast! In this episode, host Wendy Montroy sits down with Chris Leone of Garden State Tortoise to do a deep dive into the complex and often confusing world of Mediterranean tortoises. Chris shares the incredible personal story that sparked his lifelong obsession with the Testudo genus, involving a 1990s flight from Italy and a tortoise in a purse, before pivoting into the cutting-edge science of chelonian preservation. We discuss the limits of relying purely on morphology, the historical impact of the pet trade, and the shocking reality of hybrid genetics occurring right now in the wild. Whether you keep Greek tortoises (Testudo graeca), Hermann’s tortoises (Testudo hermanni), or are just passionate about reptile conservation, this episode is packed with essential insights on keeping subspecies and localities pure and managing captive collections responsibly. Episode Q&A Q: How many subspecies of Greek tortoises (Testudo graeca) actually exist? A: It is a heavily loaded and debated question in taxonomy. While some splitters classify up to 20 distinct variations, most current consensus lands between 7 and 9 recognized subspecies. Q: Why is relying strictly on visual traits (morphology) like shell color so risky for keepers? A: Color and markings can be incredibly deceiving. Environmental factors, age (many tortoises turn black as they grow older), and overlapping natural integration zones mean two completely different subspecies can look nearly identical. True morphology requires looking at finer structural details. Q: What did Chris's recent genetic testing reveal about imports labeled as Testudo graeca armeniaca (Araxes tortoise)? A: By studying obscure literature and field data, Chris suspected a beautifully domed, massive tortoise imported within an armeniaca group was actually a Testudo graeca buxtoni. Blood testing confirmed this 100%, proving that rare, distinct subspecies are hiding undetected within standard commercial imports. Q: How severe is the threat of genetic hybridization in wild tortoise populations? A: It is a major conservation crisis. On the mainland of Southern France, field biologists have discovered that roughly 18% to 20% of the wild Hermann's tortoises found are actually hybrids - meaning nearly 1 in 5 wild tortoises are facing genetic dilution. Resources: A Lab Tested Our Tortoises: Results Change Their Future Forever. - a must watch video for more info about everything we talk about in the episode For more information on turtle conservation and husbandry, visit ⁠Turtletea.org⁠ or join the ⁠Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group (TTPG) ⁠community. You can find Chris Leone on ⁠the Garden State Tortoise⁠ YouTube channel. For info on the Hermann's genetics work visit https://www.hermannihaven.com/our-genetics-project-more Not a TTPG member yet? ⁠⁠⁠Join us⁠⁠⁠! The ⁠⁠⁠Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group⁠⁠⁠ is full of the kindest, most knowledgable and FUN turtle people on the planet!

  8. 6月14日

    Leopard Tortoises - Are they the Worst Pet Tortoise or Sensitive and Misunderstood?

    Are leopard tortoises one of the world's worst pet tortoises? Or are they just deeply misunderstood, notoriously sensitive giants? In this episode of Turtle Tea with TTPG, host Wendy Montroy sits down with dedicated keeper and breeder Cliff Graham-Lee (Pink Tortz) to unlock the mysteries behind Stigmochelys pardalis. From navigating the confusing genetic mix of South African versus East African localities to the strict realities of managing their hyper-sensitive respiratory systems, Cliff pulls no punches on what it actually takes to keep these majestic animals thriving. Whether you are tracking rapid growth rings, trying to dial in the delicate dance of warm-season humidity, or wondering how to structure a massive indoor winter enclosure, this episode is packed with essential husbandry insights you will not find on a standard care sheet. Dive in to learn why the animal is always the cheapest part of the setup, how to handle silent pathogens like Mycoplasma, and why mastering leopard tortoise care requires becoming a true student of the species. 0:02 Leopard Tortoises Unpacked 4:24 Why Leopard Tortoises? 10:29 Native Range and Climate 17:35 Wild Populations and Imports 28:50 Not for Beginners 40:57 Biosecurity and Mycoplasma 52:29 Feeding the Grazers 1:00:10 Pricing and Buying Advice 1:06:25 Setup Costs and Research Key Questions Answered in This Episode Q: Are leopard tortoises a good choice for beginners?A: Absolutely not. Leopard tortoises are a hyper-sensitive species that require precise environmental conditions. They are highly skittish, slow to adjust to new environments, and more prone to stubborn respiratory infections from stress or improper humidity than almost any other tortoise species. Q: What is the main difference between South African and East African leopard tortoises?A: While science now officially groups them together under one species name, keepers notice distinct physical and behavioral differences. True South African lines often undergo a winter slowdown or diapause and can look physically distinct with heavy star patterns or high-black coloration, whereas East African populations do not undergo diapause and thrive best in consistently warm, equator-like climates. Q: Can you keep leopard tortoises on wet substrate or in rainy climates?A: They require a delicate balance. While high humidity is absolutely essential during growth to prevent shell pyramiding, constant dampness or excessive cold precipitation is dangerous. They handle wet and warm conditions well, but adult leopard tortoises must have a dry, heated retreat to prevent respiratory issues, especially when adapting to rainy climates like the American Southeast. Q: What is the recommended size or age to buy a leopard tortoise?A: Due to how fragile hatchlings are, breeders and serious keepers highly recommend waiting until a juvenile reaches the 200-gram mark before purchasing or selling. By 200 grams, their shell is structurally set and they are much less likely to crash or develop irreversible pyramiding due to minor husbandry errors. Contact our guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinktortz/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PinkTortz/ More about the show Website: https://www.turtletea.org TTPG Official Site: https://www.ttpg.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ttpg_turtlesandtortoises/ Facebook Group: The Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group

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簡介

Pour yourself a cup and join me for Turtle Tea - the definitive turtle and tortoise podcast! Whether you're a new keeper or a die-hard turtle nerd, we're sharing the inside secrets for keeping and breeding a variety of species. This show is brought to you by the Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group (TTPG), whose mission is to ensure survival of the world’s turtles and tortoises through captive breeding. Be sure to subscribe for expert species guides, husbandry and breeding advice - we’re brewing up new episodes every two weeks.

資訊

  • 創作者
    Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group
  • 活躍年代
    2025年 - 2026年
  • 集數
    26
  • 年齡分級
    兒少適宜
  • 版權
    © Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group
  • 節目網站
    Turtle Tea with TTPG

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