Product Name: Captive-Bred Radiated Tortoise Hatchling/Juvenile (Astrochelys radiata)
Status: CRITICALLY ENDANGERED & LEGALLY PROTECTED

Description:
Offer your support to one of Earth’s most magnificent and imperiled reptiles: the Radiated Tortoise. Renowned for its stunning star-burst pattern of yellow lines radiating across a deep black carapace, this species is a living jewel of Madagascar. This captive-bred individual represents a vital conservation effort, contributing to the survival of a species facing extinction in the wild.

Key Features & Significance:

Breathtaking Beauty: Intricate, high-domed carapace with brilliant yellow sunburst patterns; smooth skin with yellow markings.
Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List): Wild populations have declined >80% due to habitat loss and illegal poaching.
Captive-Bred for Conservation: Sourced only from reputable, documented captive breeding programs supporting species survival.
Living Heritage: A potential lifelong companion (70-100+ years) carrying immense ecological and cultural significance.

The Ultimate Stewardship Commitment (Not a Casual Pet):
Owning a Radiated Tortoise is a solemn responsibility demanding exceptional expertise, resources, and lifelong dedication. This species is STRICTLY PROTECTED and NOT SUITABLE for novice keepers:

LEGAL MANDATE (CITES Appendix I):
- Trade is HIGHLY REGULATED. Proof of captive breeding (CITES Article X or equivalent) is MANDATORY for legal ownership.
- Wild-caught individuals are ILLEGAL. We provide FULL documentation verifying captive origin.
- Strict permitting (federal, state, local) is required. Buyer MUST verify all regulations.
Specialized Husbandry Requirements:
- Tropical Microclimate: Requires warm temperatures (75-95°F gradient), moderate-high humidity (60-80%), and intense, full-spectrum UVB lighting year-round.
- Spacious, Secure Enclosure: Needs significant indoor/outdoor space (escape-proof, predator-proof) with varied terrain, hiding spots, and a humid retreat.
- Specific Herbivorous Diet: Primarily grasses, weeds, leafy greens, and high-fiber hay. Requires precise calcium supplementation.
Lifelong Commitment & Resources:
- Century-Long Lifespan: Ownership spans decades, requiring secure long-term planning.
- Specialized Veterinary Care: Access to an exotic veterinarian experienced with tortoises is essential.
- Significant Investment: High acquisition cost plus substantial ongoing expenses for enclosure, heating, lighting, food, and vet care.

Who This Is For:

Highly Experienced Reptile Stewards: With proven expertise in complex tortoise husbandry.
AZA-Accredited Zoos & Conservation Institutions: Dedicated to breeding assurance colonies and public education.
Serious Conservation Breeders: With documented programs aimed at preserving genetic diversity for future reintroduction efforts (where applicable).

Disclaimer of Paramount Importance:
This Radiated Tortoise is offered ONLY to pre-qualified individuals or institutions who:

Possess valid, current permits meeting all CITES Appendix I and local jurisdictional requirements.
Can provide documented proof of extensive experience with advanced tortoise care.
Have prepared a species-appropriate, secure, long-term habitat meeting all environmental needs.
Understand the critical conservation status and commit to ethical, responsible stewardship.

Acquisition Note: Due to CITES Appendix I status and captive breeding complexities, Radiated Tortoises command a significant price reflecting their rarity and conservation value. They are never “pets” in the traditional sense.