Tank was originally found by a worker at a construction site in Northern Utah who attempted to locate an owner with no success.
Tank was an adult sulcata or African spurred tortoise, estimated to be 15 years old by a veterinarian, when he was found and around 50lbs in weight. These tortoises are the third largest tortoise species, capable of weighing over 150lbs, have an average lifespan in captivity of over 50 years with some living to be over 100 years old!
Native to the Sahara Desert and parts of the Sahel region in Africa, they are suited to warm, dry climates and dig extensive burrows.
Tank’s original rescuer was not able to manage him long-term, especially with the cold outdoor elements Northern Utah brings, so he sent Tank to live in the warm Mohave desert with his mother, Debbie. Debbie absolutely loved Tank and grew him cactus pads to eat, however Debbie was unable to provide a forever home to Tank and contacted us to see if we could.
Zoologist Allie picked him up and Tank has been a beloved member of Desert Species Preservation Center ever since! Tank delights all who meet him and his story serves as an important reminder of the responsibility that comes with animal ownership.
