Thank you for getting involved in a conversation you know nothing about. I wrote a book on the species and have done quite a bit of research on the subject. Please feel free to do the same, then decide who should and shouldn't comment. This species IS being smuggled into the country RIGHT NOW, and I am sorry, but that matters to me. All I asked was for proof because it is common knowledge among informed people that this is a big deal.
I have watched this site, multiple times a day for 10 years, and have never said a thing. Unlike much of what you might be referring to, I waited until I really knew what I was talking about before I spoke up. And even then, despite my frustrations, I tried to keep things constructive and asked questions that the seller easily could have asked to show his knowledge so that potential buyers, like myself and the public, could get to know this seller and the animals a bit more.
He didn't answer. Point made. Congrats on the sale.
I welcome you, him, or any of you to talk spengleri any time you like. One day our hobby might be taken away because of how bad we look in classifieds. We chose turtles, and therefor need to care about their future and not our wallets. I really feel for and worry about anyone who doesn't agree.
*link removed - Nick*
Lastly, anyone being spengleri right now needs to get in touch with folks who know how to properly medicate, tube feed and otherwise acclimate the species. This is an issue right now. I have not heard of a legal importation of spengleri in the last 5 years. So be careful. These are the things we all need to be cognizant of, to protect ourselves and the turtles we love.
Thanks everyone, especially fauna classifieds for providing the opportunity for us to help each other out.