She's looking at one off of Craig's List! It's like an adoption! I think that's a good way to go, especially since she seems to be interested in caring for him the right way, so all is good!

I agree, no matter where you get your tort, from a breeder, adoption, rescue or Craigs list, it is out of the wild and therefore needs a forever home. WC torts can have more health problems such as worms or parasites than CB. But there are no guarantees. There are lots of torts that need adopting. Russians seem to go fast if you can find them at rescues at least around here (Southern CA) you find lots of Sullys and DT but the more exotic and smaller torts, Greeks, pancakes, Russians, RF, YF are far and few between if at all. I believe each person needs to make the choice where to obtain their tort for themselves. Adoption is always a good and often less expensive way to go. But then sometimes they just are not out there and if one comes available from another source, well ……. My personal feeling is; just do your research before you adopt or buy. That is the number one cause of difficulty with torts (IMO) lack of research. Not just on the tort but on the natural habitat it comes from.

Of cource that russian on craigslist deserves a good home no matter what. Even the thousands imported every year deserve a good home. But Russian torotises are grossly over collected. We need to support breeders of this species and decress the demand for imported animals.

Thats just how a feel so I am always going to advocate buying a captive born turtle or torotise. But I do agree with both you guys (Kelly an Robyn)

By the way did you ever get your russian?

No I haven't bought him. I have emailed the poster a few times to ask a few questions. She has reposted it up for rehoming just today. I want to get him, but don't have the money right now. If he's still available I might get him later. Not sure yet.