Arizona Game and Fish DepartmentPHOENIX (CBS5) -
The Arizona Game and Fish Department is offering desert tortoises for adoption because holding facilities are at capacity.
Although it's illegal to take the tortoises from the wild, the department receives hundreds of unwanted adult and captive-born tortoises every year, said Cristina Jones, Arizona Game and Fish turtle biologist.
"Once captive, desert tortoises can never be released into the wild," Jones said. "Not only is it illegal, it can jeopardize wild populations through the introduction of disease, or displace wild tortoises."
Anyone interested in adopting one must have an enclosed yard without potential dangers like an unfenced pool or a dog. Prospective owners will also need to build a burrow so the turtles can hide from the sun.
Owners must also live in the desert tortoise's native range, which includes Phoenix, Tucson, Bullhead City, Kingman Lake Havasu and Yuma.
Desert tortoises can be interactive and provide companionship without the same demand as other household pets, according to department officials.
The department listed more information about caring for the turtle on their website as well as the adoption application.
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