A Russian tortoise named Betty White, a resident of Badger Run Wildlife Rehab in Oregon, was recently discovered after spending the winter burrowed beneath her enclosure. The approximately 20-year-old tortoise—named after the late actress—went missing last fall, but was located by a volunteer earlier this month.
The Tortoise Trade and Conservation Concerns
Betty White’s story highlights a broader issue: the impact of the exotic pet trade on vulnerable species. Russian tortoises like her are native to Central Asia and became popular exports after the fall of the Soviet Union. As biologist Laura Hale, president of Badger Run Wildlife Rehab, explains, “Almost all of the Russian tortoises in the pet trade are wild-caught, and this has taken a toll on their species in their native territories.” Habitat loss and illegal trafficking have led to these tortoises being considered endangered or threatened in many regions.
The Tortoise’s History and Care
Betty White and another tortoise, Smudge, were rescued in December 2023 after their previous owner died. Badger Run uses them as education animals to raise awareness about the dangers of the exotic pet trade—a practice that poses health risks to both humans and the animals themselves.
The tortoise’s name comes from distinctive white lines on her shell, a result of improper diet and humidity during her earlier life. At the rehab center, Betty White and Smudge live in a large outdoor enclosure with deep soil for burrowing during warmer months. In winter, they are moved indoors with UVB lamps to prevent hibernation (“brumation”) because their role as education animals requires them to remain active.
The Winter Escape and Return
When the team prepared to move the tortoises indoors for winter, Betty White had other plans. She burrowed beneath the insulated enclosure, taking advantage of a wire mesh floor that prevented a full escape. The team knew she was underground but waited for warmer weather to avoid disturbing her potential hibernation.
Upon her return in March, Betty White was given greens, flowers, calcium, water, heat, and UVB lamps. Despite the mud-removal process, she was none too pleased with the bath. Smudge, however, was delighted by her return and spent the first day following her around their indoor enclosure.
The story of Betty White serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the conservation challenges facing exotic species. The illegal trade continues to threaten vulnerable populations, while proper care and education can help these animals thrive.
