Don't Buy Sulcata Tortoises - Giants Overwhelm U.S. Rescues

American Tortoise Rescue Calls for a Moratorium on SalesTurtle and tortoise wildlife groups and rescue organizations throughout North America, led by Malibu based American Tortoise Rescue , are calling on the pet industry, reptile wholesalers and private breeders to stop the sale of giant tortoises commonly called sulcatas.  Geochelone sulcata is a hardy and personable species of tortoise. Native to sub-Saharan Africa, it became part of the lucrative pet trade during the 1990s. It has an engaging nature, is attractive and sells for anywhere between $50 and $1,000.