I discuss the crucial importance of purchasing a surgically sexed pair of 8.5-inch Aldabra tortoises.

Unlike many animals, Aldabra tortoise sex cannot be determined by DNA tests because their sex is controlled by incubation temperature — specifically influenced by the depth of their nest.

I explain the fascinating biology behind temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) in Aldabra tortoises, where females regulate the sex ratio of their offspring by adjusting nest depth to produce more males or females as needed.

Since males are naturally less common (about 1 in 10), surgically sexed pairs at a young age (around 1.5 years) are highly valuable and ensure you know exactly what you have.

Learn how nature limits male tortoise population to prevent overbreeding and physical damage to females, and why understanding this reproductive strategy helps breeders make better decisions for successful Aldabra tortoise breeding programs.