I do not think it's a Sulcatta. The shell is much flatter than with Sulcatta babies.
If I was going to put money on it, I'd say its a yellowfoot. They are basically identical to Redfoots, except for color, and that guy sure looks like my Redfoots.
Quote:
....my guess would be that it's a gopher he found while walking to the bus stop.
If that's the case, you should release it in the same area, as it is illegal to take wild gopher torts.
|
If it is a Gopher, it may also be illegal to return it to the wild. It is here in Arizona. Once a Gopher is removed for whatever reason from the wild, it must be turned over to Fish&Game, and is then placed in an adoption program.
The reason for that is the potential for disease transmission. Gophers are very susceptible to respiratory infections which they may be exposed to in captivity, especially if there are other species of Torts kept with them. Since they have no natural defense to RIs, F&G does not want the wild population potentially exposed by reintroduction of an animal that's been held in captivity.
Chris, I think you're best bet is to take that little guy to your reptile vet and see what he says. I just can't be sure from the pics.