Leopard tortoise
Statut U.I.C.N
Union Internationale pour la Conservation de la Nature
- lc Préoccupation mineure
- nt Quasi menacé
- vu Vulnérable
- en En danger
- cr En danger critique
- ew Éteint dans la nature
- ex Éteint
Carte d'identité
- Classe :
- Reptiles
- Ordre :
- Testudines
- Famille :
- Testudinidae
- Genre :
- Stigmochelys
- Espèce :
- pardalis
- Taille moyenne
- About 40 cm
- Poids
- 13 kg on average
- Gestation
- Incubation: 8 to 15 months
5 to 30 eggs per clutch - Habitat
- Arid savannahs
- Régime
- Herbivore
The spotted giant
Its name comes from the black markings on its shell, which recall a leopard’s coat. These patterns are especially pronounced in young tortoises and may fade with age.
Threats and conservation
The leopard tortoise is threatened by habitat destruction, bush fires and capture for the animal trade. To protect it, African savannahs are preserved, trade in the species is regulated, and it is present in several protected areas.
Fun fact
Suited to dry country, the leopard tortoise can store water in its bladder. A precious reserve when water grows scarce!
