Curious Cases

Tortoise Tomfoolery

Dec 12, 2025
In a lively chat, guests Anna Wilkinson, a cognitive animal expert, Unnar Karl Aevarsson, a herpetologist from ZSL London Zoo, and Gordon Burghardt, a distinguished professor, dive into the surprising intellect of tortoises. They discuss tortoise personalities, memory, and even their capacity for play, challenging the notion that these creatures are dull. Anecdotes about tortoise behaviors and the importance of enrichment reveal how tortoises exhibit moods and recognize humans, reshaping our understanding of their cognitive abilities.
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ANECDOTE

Shelby The Missing Tortoise

  • Dara lost his pet tortoise Shelby for six weeks before finding him under garden foliage during gardening work.
  • Shelby returned indoors unharmed and showed no behavioral change after the disappearance.
INSIGHT

Tortoise Biology Matters

  • Anna Wilkinson explains tortoises are distinct from terrapins and turtles by being largely land-based with domed shells and stumpy legs.
  • She highlights tortoises' suitability as pets when housed and cared for correctly.
ANECDOTE

Tortoise Lifespan Reality

  • Hosts discuss tortoise lifespans and ownership responsibilities, citing Hermann's tortoise living 80–90 years.
  • Dara admits his eight-year-old tortoise could outlive him and requires long-term care planning.
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