A Risk Assessment for the Indian star tortoise, Geochelone elegans has been conducted by the Department.
As a key component of risk assessment for import into Tasmania, conventional climate modelling was applied to compare the state’s environment with the species’ natural range CLIMATCH revealed “very low” potential for suitable habitat across the entire state.
The risk assessment determined the Indian star tortoise as not dangerous to humans, having a low establishment risk, with a low consequence of establishment, and a low qualitative and quantitative consequence. It was therefore proposed the species be assigned to a low threat category.
Following the initial risk assessment, the Department considers permitting the importation of the Indian star tortoise with conditions enforced through a wildlife exhibition licence, can be identified and applied.
Conditions surrounding the importation of the Indian star tortoise include:
- Limiting importation to registered wildlife parks or zoos to ensure the holding facility meets the stringent keeping standards Tasmania applies to all institutions.
- Requiring any wildlife park or zoo to submit an Indian star tortoise species management plan (including enclosure details) prior to import.
- The wildlife exhibition facility can clearly demonstrate they have proficient keepers for that particular species.