Reptile
The radiated tortoise
Astrochelys radiata
The radiated tortoise, Astrochelys radiata, is a species of tortoise native to Madagascar which can live up to a hundred years in captivity.
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.
