Egyptian Tortoises: Tiny Survivors on the Brink

Ever wondered how to care for one of the world’s smallest and rarest tortoises? Join Wendy Montroy and Ralph Till as they dive deep into the hidden world of Egyptian tortoises (Testudo kleinmanni), exploring what makes them so fragile, fascinating, and vital to save.

In this episode of Turtle Tea with TTPG, host Wendy Montroy talks with lifelong TTPG member and Kleinmanni Assurance Project founder Ralph Till about the rare and critically endangered Egyptian tortoise (Testudo kleinmanni)—the world’s smallest tortoise species.

Ralph shares his nearly two decades of experience breeding these fragile desert reptiles, discussing their unique habitat, diet, humidity cycles, and conservation challenges. Learn how wild populations have vanished from Egypt and Israel, why ESA regulations complicate captive breeding in the U.S., and what dedicated keepers can do to support the species’ survival.

If you’ve ever wondered how to care for, breed, or conserve Egyptian tortoises, this episode is a must-listen for serious herp enthusiasts.

Have questions? You can find Wendy and Ralph on the TTPG Group Discussion: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TTPGGroup

Kleinmanni Assurance Project: https://www.kleinmanniassuranceproject.com/

Learn more: ttpg.org

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction: Meet Ralph Till & The Kleinmanni Assurance Project

01:32 – What Makes Egyptian Tortoises So Unique

03:18 – Tiny Tortoises, Big Challenges: Breeding in Captivity

06:42 – Habitat Insights: From Coastal Humidity to Desert Sand

09:15 – Understanding Their Diet and Daily Routine

11:40 – Why Egyptian Tortoises Aren’t for Beginners

14:02 – ESA Regulations and the Breeder’s Dilemma

17:25 – Building a Self-Sustaining Captive Population

20:10 – Advice for Keepers: Starting with Hardier Species

22:40 – The Future of Testudo kleinmanni Conservation

25:10 – Closing Thoughts: Hope for the World’s Smallest Tortoise