Are Indian star tortoise endangered?

The endangered Indian star tortoise Indian star tortoises are an endangered species. This is because of the illegal pet trade, where their eggs are stolen and sold off into black markets outside of India.

Is Indian star tortoise lucky?

The star tortoise is a popular pet mainly because of the attractive star-like radiating pattern on its shell. For centuries, in rural parts of India, Star Tortoises have been traditionally kept as pets in many homes, their owners believing that they bring good luck and fortune.

How long do Indian star tortoises live for?

They should normally live for about 30 years, but the current record is 55 years in their natural habitat. In British terminology, they are tortoises, not turtles, as they do not live in water.

Is Indian star tortoise are rare?

It has been listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List since 2016, as the population is thought to comprise more than 10,000 individuals, but with a declining trend. It is threatened by habitat loss and poaching for the illegal wildlife trade.

What is the cost of star tortoise?

The cost of a Star Tortoise is anywhere between Rs 300 and Rs 1,200.

How much is a Indian star tortoise worth?

Indian star tortoise is a protected species under Schedule IV of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and each turtle costs about Rs10,000 in the international market, according to the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI). The accused, from Balegowdanahalle village in Karnataka, are habitual offenders, according to the WCCB.

Is it illegal to pet a star turtle in India?

The body parts of these reptiles are also sold illegally due to their supposed aphrodisiacal properties and use in traditional medicine. The star tortoise is Schedule IV species under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 — that means it’s illegal to keep them as pets or trade them commercially.

Do star tortoises feel cold?

While an Indian star tortoise can handle brief temperature drops into the upper 30s, freezing temperatures will kill this species. To correct minor respiratory problems, increase the warmth of the tortoise enclosure with an additional heat source, either a heat light or heat pad.

How much does a star tortoise cost?

Indian star tortoise is a protected species under Schedule IV of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and each turtle costs about Rs10,000 in the international market, according to the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI).

Can we pet star tortoise?

The star tortoise is Schedule IV species under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 — that means it’s illegal to keep them as pets or trade them commercially.

Are Indian star tortoises protected in India?

India is home to the Indian star tortoise’s largest wild population and also has the most extensive range. India’s Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 – the primary legal instrument protecting indigenous species through graded Schedules – has been both historically and contemporarily negligent towards tortoises.

What is the life expectancy of a star tortoise?

Common Names: Star tortoise, Indian Star Tortoise, Scientific Name: Geochelone elegans. Adult Size: 7 to 12 inches long. Life Expectancy: Can live up to 80 years, though 30 to 55 years is more typical

How much time do Indian star tortoises need per day?

Expect to spend at least 45 minutes per day preparing meals, changing the water bowl, and spot cleaning the cage. Even though they are smaller than most other tortoises, Indian star tortoises still need their space.

Why is my star tortoise having trouble walking?

Older star tortoises with metabolic bone disease may have difficulty walking and suffer bone fractures. These medical conditions are treatable by an exotics veterinarian who specializes in reptiles. Be sure to follow your vet’s directions for care and treatment.