Egyptian Tortoise, 4(d) rule, and what it means for Tortstork

The 4(d) rule is a regulation established under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) that provides special protections for species listed as threatened, but not endangered. The Egyptian tortoise is one such species that is listed as threatened under the ESA, and as such, it is protected by the 4(d) rule.

The 4(d) rule for the Egyptian tortoise states that it is illegal to transport, sell, or purchase this species across state lines without a permit from the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). This means that if you live in one state and want to purchase an Egyptian tortoise from another state, you cannot do so without obtaining a permit from the USFWS.

The purpose of this regulation is to help protect the Egyptian tortoise from the illegal pet trade, which is one of the major threats to this species. By limiting the transport and sale of Egyptian tortoises across state lines, the USFWS hopes to discourage the illegal trade of this species and promote its conservation.

It’s worth noting that the 4(d) rule for the Egyptian tortoise is specific to the United States. If you live in a different country, the laws regarding the transport and sale of Egyptian tortoises may be different. However, regardless of where you live, it’s important to always research the laws and regulations governing the transport and sale of protected species to ensure that you are not inadvertently breaking the law.

Here at Tortstork, we will no longer be shipping Egyptian tortoises outside the state.  We have sent some of our breeding colonies to friends in other states, such as California and Florida.  Customers will be able to purchase from Tortstork as long as you live in those states.

This new law goes into effect May 1, 2023.  The last shipping day for baby Egyptian hatchlings is Tuesday April 25, 2023.  If this is a species you have dreamed of owning, you have a few more days to make that dream come true. Use the link below.

https://tortstork.com/product/egyptian-hatchling/