Radiated Tortoise*
Astrochelys radiata. (Testudinidae)
Appearance: The basic “tortoise” body shape: high-domed carapace, a blunt head, and elephantine feet. Legs, feet and head are yellow except for a black patch on top of the head. Carapace is brilliantly marked with yellow lines radiating from the center of each dark plate of the shell, creating a star pattern.
Distribution: Occur naturally only in the extreme southern and southwestern part of Madagascar. Habitat: They prefer dry regions of brush, thorn and woodlands. Diet: Grazing herbivores, they also eat fruits and succulent plants. A favorite food in the wild is the Opuntia cactus.
Mortality/Longevity: Radiated tortoises may live as long as 40–50 years.
Remarks: Like other tortoises their shell is supplied with blood vessels and nerves, which enables it to sense when being touched. When caught, this tortoise emits high-pitched cries, sometimes lasting an hour after capture.
This noise would startle a predator in the wild, an effective defense.
Madagascar Spiny Desert
*Not currently on display.
Radiated Tortoise*
Astrochelys radiata. (Testudinidae)
Appearance: The basic “tortoise” body shape: high-domed carapace, a blunt head, and elephantine feet. Legs, feet and head are yellow except for a black patch on top of the head. Carapace is brilliantly marked with yellow lines radiating from the center of each dark plate of the shell, creating a star pattern.
Distribution: Occur naturally only in the extreme southern and southwestern part of Madagascar. Habitat: They prefer dry regions of brush, thorn and woodlands. Diet: Grazing herbivores, they also eat fruits and succulent plants. A favorite food in the wild is the Opuntia cactus.
Mortality/Longevity: Radiated tortoises may live as long as 40–50 years.
Remarks: Like other tortoises their shell is supplied with blood vessels and nerves, which enables it to sense when being touched. When caught, this tortoise emits high-pitched cries, sometimes lasting an hour after capture.
This noise would startle a predator in the wild, an effective defense.
Madagascar Spiny Desert
*Not currently on display.