home / research / Captive husbandry of Homopus femralis
	Captive husbandry and breeding of Homopus femoralis Aim Gathering data on behaviour, diet, and reproduction of H. femoralis, some of which may provide useful information on the ecology of the species under natural conditions. In addition, the project aims to determine if it is possible to develop a genetically healthy, reproducing H. femoralis population in captivity. Materials and methods Importing small numbers of wild-caught H. femoralis to different studbook locations, providing optimal conditions, and making focal observations. Timeframe and status The first three tortoises were received in 2001 (three males, confiscated in the U.K.), and three females were imported by Dwarf Tortoise Conservation in 2006. Breeding commenced in 2008. The current population can be evaluated in the studbook overview. Several publications were produced from 2009 onwards, and the captive population continues to be a source of data. Enclosures for H. femoralis and other species, experimentally illuminated by Prismalence lamps. Finances The tortoises in this project are housed at several studbook locations, and each location is expected to arrange for its own finances. Links Project proposal Homopus femoralis Publications Husbandry information in annual reports Dwarf Tortoise Conservation Caresheet Top