Evaluation of artificial heating sources for the thermoregulation of Aldabra giant tortoises (Aldabrachelys gigantea) in Zurich zoo

Artificial heating sources can effectively support thermoregulation in Aldabra giant tortoises (Aldabrachelys gigantea) in cooler climates, such as Zurich Zoo. The study found that introducing a concrete heat pad and basking lamp allowed captive tortoises to maintain core body temperatures comparable to those observed in their natural habitat on Aldabra Atoll. While the mean environmental temperature outside the heating area (23.3 °C) was significantly lower than the optimal range for wild tortoise activity, the heating area maintained a mean temperature of 36.3 °C, enabling tortoises to achieve core body temperatures similar to those recorded during warmer seasons or in the wild. Smaller individuals reached the upper limits of recommended body temperatures, suggesting potential benefits and considerations for captive care practices.

Falcón, W., Furrer, S., Bauert, M., Hatt, J.-M., Hansen, D. M., & Clauss, M. (2018). Evaluation of artificial heating sources for the thermoregulation of Aldabra giant tortoises (Aldabrachelys gigantea) in Zurich zoo. Zoo Biology, 37(6), 458–465. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/zoo.21449