What happens when a self-proclaimed “cuddly cat person” marries a dedicated reptile keeper? In this episode of Turtle Tea with TTPG, host Wendy Montroy explores the human side of the chelonian community with guest Tara Troxell from Arctic Reptile Ranch.
Tara shares her fascinating journey from being an anxious snake-sitter to a highly intuitive, primary tortoise caretaker. From navigating extreme weather shifts to mastering the stressful task of digging up delicate Burmese Star tortoise nests, Tara breaks down what it really takes to run a successful breeding facility. She also gets deeply personal about discovering her own unique maternal instincts through her bond with her animals and shares invaluable insights on reading subtle tortoise behaviors that care sheets leave out.
Whether you are trying to convince your partner to let you get “just one more tortoise” or you’re a seasoned breeder managing your own daily husbandry routines, Tara’s story will deeply resonate.
Timestamps
0:00 – Introduction: People of the TTPG
1:03 – From Supportive Spouse to “Mother of Tortoises”
2:14 – Early Days: Overcoming a Fear of Snakes
3:00 – Moving to Texas & The Importance of Weather Monitoring
4:55 – Overcoming Anxiety and Finding a Love for Tortoises
6:11 – Harsh Lessons: The Danger of Flipped Tortoises
7:54 – Rescuing Sauron & Harambe the Redfoot Tortoise
9:39 – Captive Breeding and the Magic of Hatchlings
11:02 – Learning the Ropes: Digging Your First Nest
14:51 – The Importance of Reaching Out to Your Breeder
17:47 – Dividing and Conquering: Partner Envy & Daily Routines
23:20 – Discovering a “Maternal Instinct” Through Tortoise Care
28:01 – Advice for Skeptical Partners & Common Misconceptions
29:24 – Expert Observations: Spotting Pre-Nesting Behaviors
34:19 – The Physical Demands of Keeping Tortoises in Extreme Heat
37:15 – Closing Thoughts & How to Share Your TTPG Story
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