TMM: Timmy's Tortoise Rescue - Helping to Solve Arizona's Overbreeding Problem

Photos of Timmy eating by Ashton Hackney (Left and Right)

The overbreeding of desert tortoises has become a growing problem in Arizona with many people breeding the reptiles for profit. This increasing population of desert tortoises has left many of these creatures needing a home and many are dealing with severe health issues and deformations in their shells.

Photo of Timmy (Left) Photo of Shell'lock Holmes eating

Krystal Johnson is the founder of "Timmy’s Tortoise Rescue, Rehab, and Rehome" and says,

“Desert tortoises are different, they are illegal to breed, and we are losing them in the wild due to people taking them or just not knowing the laws. My guys are Sulcatas and super overbred here in Arizona, they are considered an exotic pet.”.

Tonight, on episode three of TMM (The Mesa Minute) she and

her mother JJ Johnson discusses why overbreeding is such an issue in the “Copper State” and what they are doing to help solve the problem.

Facebook Page for Timmy’s Rescue

Photo of Timmy By Ashton Hackney

These photos were taken by Krystal Johnson and show rescues like Carol, that have severe pyramiding. It is noticeable by the large knobby and pyramid-like shape of the shells. "Tortoise shells should be smooth", says Johnson. Also pictured is a 5 year old tortoise next to a much larger yearling. These growth issues are a result of overbreeding and improper care.