I always get asked about hibernating animals, even though it's not information I need myself. I don't breed, so the snakes are safe and the turtles and tortoises that come and go through my rescue are temporary visitors; they stay up year round here.

Today, the Tortoise Trust released their revised hibernation guidelines, and the break down by species rocks. The Tortoise Trust, much like our friends over at the Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group, aims to help establish captive colonies of tortoises in private homes as well as educating the pet owners on proper care.

All of the information presented has been carefully prepared by some of the most experienced tortoise keepers in the world in close consultation with leading veterinary surgeons. The techniques described are in daily use at our own tortoise sanctuaries in Britain, the USA, and South Africa, and have been tried and tested over many years. The effectiveness of these techniques is such that despite hibernating possibly more tortoises each year than anyone else, we have never suffered a single hibernation fatality. In each case, the methods used were those described in this booklet. With proper care and attention to detail, you too can achieve similar results.

Tortoises are now under threat worldwide, mainly from habitat loss and in some cases from collecting for the pet animal trade. Fortunately, some active steps to conserve these animals are at last being taken. Much more needs to be done. The endless destruction of natural habitats must be controlled, and conservation reserves created where these animals can continue to breed and survive without human predation. Land tortoises fresh water, and marine turtles all need our help and consideration if they are to survive as species. They must not be lost forever.

The breakdown is very detailed and also shows some of the issues that may present themselves post waking. To search out your species, click here.