The radiated tortoise, Astrochelys radiata, is a species of tortoise native to Madagascar which can live up to a hundred years in captivity.
Profile
Critically Endangered (CR)
Lifestyle
When temperatures soar in southern Madagascar, the radiated tortoise digs a deep burrow which provides it with shade and moisture. It stays there during the dry season to avoid the sun and dehydration.
During the breeding season, the males fight over the females. To clear the field, the strongest males flip their rivals onto their backs. During mating, the male makes very loud noises, like a groan, and the knocking of both partners’ shells can be heard from afar. Males and females have differently shaped undershells, the male’s being more concave to facilitate mating.
Distinctive features
The head and legs of the radiated tortoise are yellowish in colour except for the top of the head which is black. Its shell is black with yellow stripes – hence its name.
Anecdote
This tortoise is a victim of illegal trade because of its beauty and local beliefs, and also killed for its meat. This is one of the most endangered tortoises in the world.
