Coexisting with a turtle or tortoise may not be a warm and fuzzyexperience, but it definitely has its rewards. And with more than250 species to choose from, you?re bound to find onethat?s right for you. Looks-wise, they can range from veryplain and unadorned to a brightly colored and embellished withevery manner of crest, crown, spike, and dewlap. As forpersonality, you?d be amazed at how very different they canbe, ranging from shy and withdrawn, to outgoing and friendly, tooutright aggressive. And when it comes to longevity, well,let?s just say that when you commit to a turtle or tortoise,you?re in it for the long haul. For example, the standardAmerican box turtle can live more than 125 years, a leopardtortoise has a life span of up to 100 years, and an aldabrantortoise can live to be more than 200 years old! This fun guide will help you choose the perfect turtle ortortoise for your lifestyle and give it the care it needs tothrive. Turtle and tortoise expert Liz Palika provides cl ear,step-by-step instructions on how to: Select the appropriate turtle or tortoise Provide a suitable environment for your new pal Care for a variety of chelonian (turtle and tortoise)species Supply you pet with a satisfying and healthy diet Create an indoor or outdoor home Understand your turtle?s or tortoise?s specialneeds Generously illustrated with line drawings and high-qualityphotographs, Turtles & Tortoises For Dummies covers allthe bases. Topics covered include: Deciding whether a turtle or tortoise is right for you Choosing between a turtle and tortoise Who?s Who of turtles and tortoises?a complete guideto dozens of species, where they?re from, what they?relike, and how they are as pets Creating a safe and healthy environment for your pet Recognizing and treating common health problems and finding agood veterinarian to help you care for your chelonian Turtles & Tortoises For Dummies is your fun guide toselecting, caring for, and sharing your life with a chelonian.