Pros/cons of tortoise ownership?

[JoshSloane]

The statement stands, their high mortality rate is compounded in the hands of a novice because they do take more attention to detail and are much less forgiving of keeper errors.

Yes, a novice keeper who is uneducated in proper tortoise care does compound mortality rates. However, as the OP mentioned earlier, there is a TON of outdated, misleading and just plain incorrect information on the internet regarding basic tortoise care.

But, substandard breeding practices still stand as a major hurdle to a thriving hatchling. Many breeders will have dozens of mating pairs of torts producing large clutches multiple times a year. Frequently these babies are grouped together, and fed communally in a large enclosure. If care isn't taken to soak hatchlings, and maintain humidity standards, it is very possible to receive a dehydrated hatchling that wasn't eating.