Luke Basulto, a tortoise biologist and conservationist, shares his passion for desert ecosystems, particularly the desert tortoise. He discusses the challenges facing the conservation of this species, including habitat loss, predation, and climate change. Luke emphasizes the importance of education and community engagement in conservation efforts, especially in underrepresented communities. Through his organization, Saving Slowpoke, Luke aims to connect people with nature and inspire them to protect these animals. Luke also shares a personal story about his father discovering a desert tortoise under a vehicle, which sparked his lifelong passion for these animals.

SHOW NOTES: https://www.animalsathomenetwork.com/202-luke-basulto/

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LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:https://www.instagram.com/luke_basulto/https://www.instagram.com/savingslowpoke/https://www.savingslowpoke.org/

Video Clips and Photos Used in Episode:https://www.instagram.com/luke_basulto/https://www.instagram.com/savingslowpoke/

WE DISCUSS:0:00 Coming Up1:26 In Memory of Dirk5:16 Welcome Luke - Background & Intro to Desert Tortoises 22:37 California Desert Program Manager & Chuckwalla Monument29:17 Replicating a Desert Ecosystem 36:23 Tips for Herping in the California Desert 42:13 Rattlesnake Canine Aversion Training 50:46 Desert Tortoise - Why are they Endangered?1:07:43 Saving Slowpoke1:14:08 From a Felon to Tortoise Conservationist 1:18:06 Closing Thoughts1:19:23 Outro