"Welcome to Shell Shack"

Hello Everyone:
Welcome to Shell Shack, the place where man and turtle can meet on equal ground. These wonderful animals have been around since the days of Dinos and are still here to tell their tales. Unfortunately their fairy tale story of survival is being marred by the ever encroaching advancements of mankind. Though the stopping of our detructive ways will most likely never happen, there are probably many ways in which man can live side by side with these amazing ancient animals.
Turtles are very long-lived, some even being reported as surviving longer than human beings. Unfortunately that usually means they are slower growing than many of their reptilian friends (especially lizards, many of which can mature and breed within the first year of life) and as such slower to mature. therefore their numbers can easily be exponentially altered by changes in their environment.
Turtles are a sign of longevity in many cultures. They are also considered a delicacy in many cultures as well and thus end up being a part of someone's menu. This is a growing problem in the orient today. The demand for turtle flesh is slowly exceeding the supply which could mean a downward spiral for many species. Real life solutions must be reached that would be acceptable by both Man and Chelonian alike in order to stem the tide of this cxurrent trend.
Not all is doom and gloom for these animals. They also make excellent pets and have been kept by people for hundreds and (who knows) maybe thousands of years. Pet turtles can be wonderful animals, learning to recognize their people and leading long lives that eclipse all animals except for large parrots, some amphibians, and Koi. Is it possible the salvation of these animals lies in the hands of those who love them most...Pet turtle keepers?
It is not the scope of this blog to take sides in the ongoing political play concerning these animals, it's just to talk and learn a little more about our Chelonian friends, the Turtles!!!
Have a Great day!!!