Welcome to Perth Zoo

Getting back onto your feet is hard work for a tall-shelled tortoise after getting tipped over by a rival male.

Description: Radiated Tortoises are the largest of the ‘star’ tortoises, so called because of the star pattern on their back. The shell, or ‘carapace’, is black with yellow or orange stars. Males have longer tails than females. This tortoise has yellow legs, feet and head except for a black patch on top of its head.

Diet: They are herbivores, feeding on grasses, fruit and succulent plants.

In the wild: After mating, females lay their eggs in a pre-excavated hole and then leave them alone. Juveniles are 3.2–4 cm upon hatching and are a white to an off-white shade. The juvenile’s carapace hardens and colours soon after hatching.

Threats: Radiated Tortoises are affected by loss of habitat and are used as a food source for ceremonial events. Their shells are also used as ornaments.

Did you Know?

The oldest known Radiated Tortoise died at an estimated age of 188.

Precinct
African Savannah
Scientific Name
Astrochelys radiata
Conservation Status
Critically Endangered
Body Length
30–40 cm
Weight
up to 16 kg
Class
Reptile
Incubation
4.5–5.5 months
Number of Eggs
3–12
Distribution
Southern Madagascar
Habitat
Dry regions of brush, thorn bushes and woodlands
Region
Africa

Where you can find me

extraMile by Integranet