Leopard Tortoise
Scientific name: Stigmochelys pardalis
The tortoise is a land-dwelling reptile in the family Testudinidae which contains around 40-50 species.
Tortoises are well-known for their hard outer shell that protects them from predators. This shell can range in size from a few centimetres to a couple of metres, depending on the species. The African Speckled Tortoise is the world’s smallest tortoise reaching a maximum carapace (the shell’s top) length of 11 centimetres.
The Leopard Tortoise is the fourth largest tortoise in the world and can grow to 70 centimetres in length and weigh 54 kilograms. This species is easily recognised by their domed carapaces with contrasting black and yellow patterns.
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We live...
In the ring tailed lemur enclosure.
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Size Fact
The Galapagos tortoise is the world’s largest, with some specimens exceeding 1.5 metres.
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Food Fact
Predators of eggs and hatchlings include small mammals, birds, and other reptiles.
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Fun Fact
Some individuals are known to have lived longer than 150 years!
Adopt Me
You can support our conservation efforts and help with the costs of keeping rare and wonderful zoo animals by adopting a Giant Tortoise. Adopt a Giant Tortoise for yourself or as a gift.
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