CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - At the ripe old age of 47, desert tortoise Einstein finally has a place of his own.

Hatched and acquired as a pet in 1975, the reptile is one of many threatened and protected species. He had a series of owners before finding forever family among Effie Yeaw Nature Center supporters. Thanks to volunteer efforts by Carmichael and Arcade Rotary Clubs and Boy Scout Troop 328, the newcomer now has his own outdoor habitat at the center.

Einstein’s 120 square foot enclosure was dedicated last weekend and declared an immediate success. “We put him inside and he checked out every inch,” confirmed Effie Yeaw animal handler Renee Covey. “We’ll still bring him inside at night, but it’s great that he now has his own daytime retreat. He loves it.”

The habitat is planted with clumps of native grasses and has a small water pond. Weighing a healthy 17 pounds, the slow-moving occupant enjoys a vegetable diet, favoring dandelion greens and an occasional banana. Along with his new digs, his new job is animal ambassador for the nonprofit. “He likes people,” says handler Covey. “He sits on laps. If you’re doing desk work, he wanders over and lays his head on your foot.”

Although Southern California deserts are native territory, Einstein cannot be released to the wild. “After being in captivity for so long, he would not do well,” explains Covey. “And he might carry disease or parasites that could put other creatures at risk.”

Before the $10,000 habitat project came to his rescue, he lived at the homes of Nature Center staffers. But the boarder needed his own turf. “It’s recommended an adult male of his species should have a large outdoor space for himself, explains Covey.

Long-time Nature Center supporters, Arcade and Carmichael Rotary Clubs funded the project with cash and in-kind donations. The volunteers consulted Effie Yeaw staffers on design; they milled redwood planks and commissioned metal gratings. For Einstein’s well-being, interior surfaces are unpainted and chemical free. The enclosure’s see-through cover allows visitor viewing. Sunshine and shade are plentiful, and the desert native will soon get a “hide” where he can retreat for naps. As he might live well beyond his 100^th birthday, all habitat materials were chosen for enduring service.

“He will be a great animal ambassador”, considers Covey. “He’s personable; he’s interested in children and adults. If he decides he likes you, he’ll come up and greet you with a bob of his head. He’s used to being handled and does well with travel. We’ll be able to take Einstein to events, where he’ll help teach the public about the effect humans have on our eco system. A desert tortoise is a good example of a species that needs protection.”

Footnote: due to the threatened status of desert tortoises, it is illegal to acquire or keep the reptiles as pets without registration from Wildlife agencies.