It can be a bit tricky to tell these guys apart!

Shell yeah! We have four new radiated tortoises to introduce you to!  

We were over the moon (and carapace) to welcome these four new animal residents to our Expedition Africa loop. These new additions come as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) radiated tortoise Species Survival Plan (SSP). We have been a part of the SSP for this species for years as a holding facility for radiated tortoises that are not recommended for breeding. These four tortoises and our resident male, Rako, are all not recommended to pair up with others. This recommendation can be given to individuals who have health issues or concerns related to breeding, have bred unsuccessfully in the past, or already have well-represented genetics among the AZA-zoo population.  

While it may seem counterintuitive to be a part of a program designed to protect endangered species through encouraging breeding and creating a safeguard population, it’s still critical to make sure the individuals that won’t partner up are given a safe and comfortable home.  

“By giving these individuals a place to live, it opens up space for other breeding pairs to contribute to the population at other facilities,” said Area Supervisor of Herps & Aquatics, Jenna.   

Our new torts have already made themselves right at home. They’ve begun introductions with Rako, and they have all been getting along great.  

“They love getting extra attention from keepers and receiving shell scratches,” noted Jenna.  

The smallest of the bale (a name for a group of tortoises) will even follow their keepers around the yard. They spend their days basking in the sun and, like Rako, love to put themselves to bed at the end of the night. They’ll nestle down into the substrate in their heated shelters and stay there until the sun rises again.  

If you’ve already fallen in love with this group as much as us, you’ll be thrilled that we have some extra good news to share! We’re giving our fans the chance to name these tortoises through a poll on our social media channels. Check back in with us to see what names won out!

Brevard Zoo is an independent, not-for-profit organization that receives no recurring government funding for our operating costs. Your generous support enables us to continue to serve our community and continue our vital animal wellness, education and conservation programs.