The Law
There are certain Laws applicable, if you are considering keeping a Tortoise as a pet. If a Tortoise is classed as ‘endangered’ under CITES (Convention in Trade in Endangered Species) it will be classed as Appendix A or B. The following chart gives guidance on the current status of certain Chelonian species.
Tortoise Species Legal Requirements
This table outlines the CITES Annex classification and certificate requirements for various tortoise species. CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) helps ensure that international trade does not threaten species' survival.
| Common Name | Scientific Name | Annex | Certificate Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hermann tortoise | Testudo hermanni | Annex A | Certificate required |
| Spur-thighed tortoise | Testudo graeca | Annex A | Certificate required |
| Marginated tortoise | Testudo marginata | Annex A | Certificate required |
| Horsfield tortoise | Testudo horsfieldi | Annex B | Not required |
| Leopard tortoise | Geochelone pardalis | Annex B | Not required |
| Sulcata tortoise | Geochelone sulcata | Annex B | Not required |
| Indian star tortoise | Geochelone elegans | Annex A | Certificate required |
| Red footed tortoise | Geochelone carbonaria | Annex B | Not required |
Annex A: Highest protection level
Annex B: Trade regulated to avoid over-exploitation
Certificate required for trade
Certificate not required