Leopard Tortoise
Geochelone pardalis
- Habitat: Arid to semi-arid habitats
- Range: South Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Zaire, Angola, and Zambia
- Natural Diet: Leaves, seeds, grains, nuts, and flowers
- Status in the Wild: Common
Fun Facts
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The African leopard tortoise is the fourth largest tortoise species in the world.
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An average adult leopard tortoise is 18 inches in length and weighs approximately 40 pounds.
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The tortoises are yellowish-cream in color with high dome-shaped carapaces.
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The carapace has black markings that make the tortoise look very attractive.
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Leopard tortoises are herbivorous.
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When threatened these animals retract pulling in their heads and legs under their shell.
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Sexual maturity is reached at 12 to 15 years of age.
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Females dig holes in the ground with their hind legs in which they lay eggs. They lay three clutches of eggs of 5 to 30 eggs
Leopard tortoises inhabit savannah and semi-savannah type habitats in several African countries
Conservation Threats
Major threats to wild populations of this species are:
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Habitat loss due to agricultural practices, livestock grazing, and collection of wood.
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Tortoises are also captured for the pet-trade and human consumption.